Who pays for dehumidification in a rental?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, and it feels more humid than usual. The AC seems to struggle to keep up, especially at night when we all complain about feeling cold but sweaty. Given that this is a rental, whose responsibility is it to ensure proper dehumidification?
Posted by David Wilson
Asked on January 3, 2026 11:19 pm
In the UAE, particularly Dubai, regulations can sometimes be ambiguous regarding who is responsible for maintaining indoor environmental quality. However, it's crucial to understand that dehumidification falls under the category of ensuring a healthy and comfortable living environment, which typically necessitates regular maintenance.

Firstly, according to the Landlord and Tenant Law in Dubai, landlords are generally expected to maintain the property in good condition and ensure it is fit for habitation. This includes addressing issues such as excessive moisture that can lead to mold growth and unpleasant odors. Given your description of a musty smell and humidity issues, it would be prudent to inform your landlord about these conditions.

However, it’s important to note that the specifics might vary based on individual contracts or agreements between landlords and tenants. Some rental agreements may explicitly outline responsibilities for maintenance tasks, including dehumidification. Therefore, reviewing your lease agreement could provide clarity on who is responsible for such issues.

If the problem persists despite communication with the landlord, it's advisable to seek a professional inspection. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer comprehensive environmental inspections and remediation services that can evaluate the extent of moisture problems and recommend necessary actions. Contacting them at 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com could be beneficial.

For more severe cases where immediate action is required due to health concerns, engaging a professional for intervention might be necessary. Regular dehumidification units are common solutions in such scenarios but should always be used under the guidance of experts who can ensure they are installed and operated correctly to avoid further issues.

In conclusion, while your landlord may have initial responsibility to address these issues, seeking a professional opinion could provide clarity on next steps. Always document any communication with your landlord regarding these concerns for potential disputes or future reference.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 5, 2026 6:27 am