Should landlords fix air duct issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in our hallway near the entrance. Our rental is an older building with ductwork running through it, and we’ve only recently moved into this unit on the third floor. Given that everyone’s been experiencing stuffy noses and coughs, especially my young son, I’m starting to wonder if it might be related to the state of our air ducts. Shouldn’t landlords take care of this, or is it a responsibility shared between tenants?
Posted by Megan Anderson
Asked on December 15, 2025 6:33 am
0
Air duct issues can indeed be a serious matter, especially in an older building like yours. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, we have seen numerous instances where poor air duct maintenance has led to health concerns for tenants.

Landlords are typically responsible for ensuring that the property is in a safe and habitable condition. This includes maintaining the HVAC system, which encompasses the air ducts as well. While it's not explicitly stated in all rental agreements, it’s generally implied that landlords must keep common areas like hallways and public spaces clean and free of hazards. As for your situation, since you're experiencing odors along with respiratory issues especially among family members, it would be prudent to address this concern sooner rather than later.

Firstly, I would recommend having a professional inspection done by an accredited company such as Saniservice, who can assess the state of your ductwork and identify any potential sources of contamination or mold growth. The UAE doesn’t have specific regulations mandating regular duct cleaning; however, it’s advisable to clean them every 3-5 years depending on usage and environmental factors.

Secondly, if you suspect that moisture has entered your unit due to recent rain, this could indeed be contributing to the odors and health issues. Moisture can lead to mold growth within the ductwork which is a common cause of such smells in older buildings. Mold exposure is especially harmful for young children whose immune systems are still developing.

If you decide to pursue an inspection or cleaning service, do ensure that they use appropriate methods like negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination during the process and proper HEPA filtration to capture fine particles. You might want to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a quote and more details.

Lastly, while landlords are generally responsible for maintaining common areas, it’s always good practice to communicate with your landlord about any concerns you have regarding the health of the building environment. If they refuse to address the issue, you might consider escalating this matter through local tenant protection organizations or even legal advice if necessary.

Remember, your well-being and that of your family is paramount, so taking action on this promptly would be advisable.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 18, 2025 10:31 pm