Who maintains ductwork in a rental property?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp smell lingering in our hallway near the ductwork. It’s been bothering me, especially since we’ve lived here for two years and no one has mentioned anything about cleaning or maintaining the system. Who is responsible for duct cleaning in a rental property like ours?
Posted by Kenji Dang
Asked on January 2, 2026 3:41 am
0
In the UAE, specifically within the bustling city of Dubai, the responsibility for maintaining ductwork can sometimes blur. For rental properties, it's essential to understand who is typically responsible for such maintenance tasks.

Generally speaking, if you're a tenant in a rental property like yours, the landlord or property manager usually takes on the duty of ensuring that systems are maintained and inspected regularly. This means they should be responsible for having the ductwork cleaned and checked for any issues, including damp smells which could indicate mold growth or water damage.

However, it's crucial to review your lease agreement to see what responsibilities you and the landlord agree upon. Many times, leases will specify that tenants are responsible for regular maintenance of certain aspects like filters but may also state that landlords handle major cleaning tasks such as ductwork.

If your agreement doesn't cover this or if you've noticed a persistent damp smell in the hallway near the ducts, it's wise to bring up the issue with your landlord. Communicate your concerns and request an inspection or cleaning of the system. If they refuse or delay addressing the problem, you might consider reaching out to the Dubai Municipality for advice on what steps to take next.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your indoor air quality at its best. Ducts that are not cleaned properly can accumulate dust, mold spores, and other allergens which can impact both comfort and health in a home.

If the issue persists or worsens, it might be wise to have the system professionally inspected and cleaned. This will help ensure that any potential issues such as mold growth are addressed before they become more serious. For professional duct cleaning services, you could call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.

Keep in mind, while most landlords should take care of major systems like ductwork, it's always good to be proactive and ensure your living environment remains healthy and safe.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 4, 2026 6:30 am