Should I complain about moldy air vents?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange musty odor coming from the air vents in my bedroom. My landlord mentioned they clean the ducts annually, but it’s been over two years since then, and the smell persists. The grime buildup in the vents is also quite obvious now. Should I bring this up with my landlord or should I insist on a professional cleaning?
Posted by Matthew Harris
Asked on January 23, 2026 10:52 pm
0
Absolutely, the musty odor coming from your air vents warrants some attention. In dubai, we have our fair share of humidity, which can create a breeding ground for mold and other microorganisms if there's enough moisture or poor ventilation. The grime buildup in your vents is a clear sign that something isn't right and could be leading to the smell.

While it’s common practice for landlords to clean ducts annually, it sounds like you've been experiencing this issue for over two years now. This persistent odor coupled with visible grime suggests that professional intervention might be necessary. The UAE doesn’t have specific regulations mandating how often ductwork should be cleaned, but it's generally recommended every 2-3 years in our climate conditions.

I'd strongly advise you to bring up the issue with your landlord first and let them know about the odor and the visible grime. Many landlords might appreciate knowing that the condition of their property is being monitored so they can maintain a comfortable living environment for tenants.

However, if no action is taken or if the smell persists despite your landlord’s efforts, it would be wise to seek professional duct cleaning services. This not only addresses the immediate issue but also ensures that any potential health hazards are eliminated.

Don't hesitate to contact local professionals who specialize in indoor environmental quality and building sciences. For example, you could reach out to companies like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email them through hello@saniservice.com for a thorough inspection and cleaning.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial, especially in our region where humidity can be quite high. By addressing this issue proactively, you're not only improving your living conditions but also potentially extending the life of your HVAC system by keeping it free from obstructions and contaminants.

So go ahead and bring up the matter with your landlord first but don’t hesitate to take things into your own hands if necessary!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 29, 2026 2:39 pm