Should I worry about musty smell in hallway?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the hallway that separates the bedrooms from the living area in my rental apartment. It’s persistent and doesn’t seem to go away even after cleaning. The carpets are pretty old and might be contributing to it, but I’m not sure if it's my responsibility or what exactly should be done about it. What steps can I take to address this issue?
Posted by Neha Menon
Asked on December 14, 2025 9:10 pm
0
Absolutely, you should be concerned about the musty smell in your hallway. A persistent odor like this can indicate an underlying issue that needs addressing before it worsens and potentially impacts your health.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, building regulations emphasize maintaining a healthy indoor environment. If water intrusion or moisture is the cause of the musty smell, it could lead to mold growth which can be detrimental to health. Mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory issues for some people.

Given your situation, I recommend you take immediate steps:
1. Assess the Situation: Try to determine if there's any visible water damage or dampness in the area. Check for leaks around pipes, windows, or doors.
2. Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation by opening windows and using exhaust fans where applicable. Proper ventilation can help reduce moisture levels which are conducive to mold growth.
3. Clean Regularly: While you mentioned that carpets might be old, it’s always a good idea to vacuum regularly and clean the area with a mild disinfectant solution if the smell persists.

However, given the persistence of the odor despite cleaning efforts, I would advise you to contact a professional for an inspection. In Dubai, there are several reputable companies that offer environmental inspections and remediation services. One such company is Saniservice, who can help identify the source of the smell and provide necessary treatments or recommendations.

Remember, it’s not uncommon in rental agreements for landlords to be responsible for maintaining good indoor air quality, so don't hesitate to bring this up with your landlord as well. If they refuse to address the issue, you might want to document everything and seek advice from local tenant rights organizations or lawyers.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you need immediate assistance. Don’t let a musty smell linger; it could be more than just an unpleasant odor but a sign of bigger issues needing attention.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 20, 2025 11:46 am