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After the rain last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in our hallway near the air vents. My landlord said he handles all maintenance issues but I’m not sure if duct cleaning falls under his responsibilities. We’ve lived here for two years and just noticed this smell. Shouldn’t the ducts be cleaned regularly, or is it my responsibility as a tenant?
Posted by Jason Anderson
Asked on January 12, 2026 12:05 pm
0
Who Is Responsible For Duct Cleaning?

Duct cleaning can be quite an important aspect of maintaining good indoor air quality, especially after unusual weather events like the rain we experienced last month. It's great that you're concerned about this issue and taking steps to address it.

In the UAE, including Dubai, there isn't a specific regulation stating who is responsible for duct cleaning. However, it’s generally considered part of regular maintenance and is typically the landlord's responsibility if they provide air conditioning as part of your rental agreement. This could be included in the terms and conditions or service agreements that were agreed upon at the start of your tenancy.

That being said, since you've only noticed the odor recently after two years of living there, it might be prudent to seek a professional inspection first. This will help determine if the smell is due to accumulated dust and debris in the ducts, or something else entirely such as mold growth which can occur when moisture is present.

If your landlord disagrees with the need for cleaning, you may want to bring up this issue at your next rent review meeting or contact a local professional service provider. Companies like Saniservice, who can be reached by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com, are experienced in carrying out these inspections and cleanings.

Regular cleaning of air ducts is recommended at least once every three to five years, depending on the usage and environment. This not only helps in reducing dust and allergens but also improves energy efficiency by ensuring that your HVAC system works more effectively. In Dubai’s hot climate, this can lead to significant savings on cooling bills.

If you decide to go ahead with professional cleaning, ensure they use methods approved for use in sensitive areas such as hospitals or residential properties. Proper duct cleaning involves using HEPA filters and specialized vacuum equipment to remove not just visible debris but also microscopic particles that could be harmful if ingested over time.

Remember, indoor air quality is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment, particularly after unusual weather events like heavy rain. If you’re still unsure about who should take the initiative on this matter, it might be best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 14, 2026 11:12 pm