Who cleans moldy areas in apartment?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a layer of dust on the ceiling fans and some mildew around the window sills in my bedroom. The AC in my apartment seems to be struggling to keep up with the heat too, and there’s always a faint musty smell that lingers even after cleaning. Who's responsible for cleaning these areas—me or the landlord?
Posted by Kevin Robinson
Asked on December 25, 2025 4:52 am
0
Cleaning moldy areas in your apartment is an important task that involves both you and the landlord depending on certain factors. In the UAE, specifically Dubai, there are no specific laws mandating who must clean mold; however, it's a reasonable expectation for landlords to maintain a healthy living environment.

In your situation where you've noticed mildew around window sills and a lingering musty smell, it would be wise to first address these issues yourself. Here are some steps to take:

1. Check Your Lease Agreement: Review the terms of your lease with the landlord. Many rental agreements include clauses regarding maintenance responsibilities. If nothing is mentioned about cleaning duties or environmental conditions, you can bring this up.

2. Maintain Good Hygiene Practices: Regularly clean and dry areas prone to moisture like window sills, bathroom tiles, and kitchen surfaces. For ceiling fans, you could use a soft cloth or duster while the fan is off to remove dust. Be cautious not to damage any electrical components during the cleaning process.

3. Use Mold Remediation Products: If mildew persists, consider using specialized mold remediation products available in local supermarkets or hardware stores. These can be effective for small areas of mildew growth.

4. Consult Professionals: For more serious cases where mold has spread significantly, it's advisable to call upon professional services. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice are known for their expertise in mold inspections and remediation. Their contact number is 800-MOLDS or you can email them at hello@saniservice.com.

5. Communicate with Your Landlord: If the issue persists despite your efforts, reach out to your landlord and express concern over the musty smell and mildew. Clearly explain that it affects your quality of life and request for a professional inspection. Many landlords are willing to address these issues promptly if they know you’ve taken care of what you could.

Remember, while it’s important to keep your living space clean, it's equally crucial to ensure that the building is in good condition. If the air conditioning struggles with heat too, it might be due to a maintenance issue and should also be addressed by the landlord or through professional services.

Taking these steps will not only help improve the indoor environmental quality but also strengthen communication between you and your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 27, 2025 8:38 pm