Should I report lingering duct odor to landlord?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty odor coming from the ducts in the hallway. We’ve lived in this apartment for two years now, but I’m unsure if it’s my responsibility to have the ducts cleaned or if it falls under the landlord's maintenance. Given that the smell has been lingering and seems to be getting worse, should I bring this up with my landlord?
Posted by Joseph Torres
Asked on January 25, 2026 12:49 pm
0
Absolutely, it's prudent to bring up the persistent musty odor from your ducts with your landlord. In Dubai and the UAE, the responsibility for maintaining indoor air quality is shared between tenants and landlords. While the specifics can vary based on local lease agreements, in general, landlords are expected to ensure that the premises are in a safe and habitable condition.

Given that you've lived there for two years and the smell has recently worsened after rainfall, it's advisable to address this issue promptly. Persistent odors could indicate a serious problem like mold growth within your ductwork, which can be detrimental to health if not addressed properly.

Firstly, schedule an inspection with a professional company such as Saniservice who can assess the condition of your ducts and provide a detailed report on what might be causing the odor. They can recommend necessary cleaning or remediation services that may fall under landlord maintenance depending on your agreement.

If you decide to reach out to your landlord first, it's good practice to send them an email or make a formal request. Include specific details about when you noticed the smell and how it has affected your living experience. Emphasize the potential health risks of not addressing this issue, especially if mold is present.

Remember that in Dubai, as per the Property Management Law (FZ-4), landlords are required to maintain the property to a certain standard. If they do not address your concerns within a reasonable time frame after receiving notice, you may have grounds to escalate the matter through local tenant rights organizations or even seek legal advice.

In the meantime, avoid using your HVAC system if possible and ensure good ventilation in affected areas of your home. You might also want to check for other sources of moisture that could be contributing to the odor.

So, do not hesitate to contact Saniservice on 800-MOLDS or email them at hello@saniservice.com for a professional inspection. Taking proactive steps will help ensure both your comfort and the safety of your home.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial in our climate, so addressing this issue diligently can save you from potential health problems down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 30, 2026 1:09 am