Who maintains mold chillers in rentals?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of the kitchen where the landlord installed the mold chiller. We’ve lived here for two years, but this is the first time something like this has happened. Who is responsible for maintaining and repairing the mold chiller in a rental property?
Posted by Camille Janssen
Asked on January 4, 2026 3:41 am
In the UAE, particularly within the jurisdiction of Dubai, maintenance obligations for mold chillers in rental properties can be a bit murky. The primary responsibility often lies on the landlord to ensure that such systems are properly installed and maintained, but it's crucial for tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities as well.

Firstly, per the Real Estate Agency Law (No. 7 of 2018) and the Dubai Municipality regulations, landlords must maintain property in a safe, habitable condition. This includes ensuring that all equipment, including mold chillers, is functioning correctly and not posing health risks to tenants. Mold chillers are designed to control humidity levels, which can significantly impact indoor air quality. A malfunctioning or improperly maintained chiller could lead to increased moisture levels and subsequent mold growth.

From a practical standpoint, it's wise for tenants to document any issues with the mold chiller immediately upon noticing unusual smells or signs of dampness in their rental unit. Keeping records of these observations can be crucial if disputes arise over maintenance responsibilities. Should you observe such conditions, it would be prudent to contact your landlord and request an inspection.

However, in many cases, especially when dealing with large properties or complex systems like mold chillers, professional intervention might be necessary. In the UAE, specialized environmental services companies are well-equipped to conduct thorough inspections, identify any issues, and provide remediation solutions. For instance, companies such as Saniservice offer comprehensive mold inspection, testing, and remediation services.

It's also advisable for tenants to familiarize themselves with the specific terms of their lease agreement, which may outline maintenance responsibilities or provide a framework for resolving disputes. If your landlord fails to address concerns regarding the mold chiller, you might consider involving the Landlord Tenant Bureau (LTB) or seeking legal advice to ensure that your rights are protected.

In cases where the mold situation is serious and potentially health-threatening, professional intervention is highly recommended. The UAE has stringent laws protecting public health, and ignoring such issues could result in significant fines or legal action against the property owner. Therefore, if you suspect a mold chiller issue, don’t hesitate to call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for immediate assistance.

Remember, prevention is key. Regular maintenance and professional inspections can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. As a tenant in Dubai, being proactive about your living conditions ensures you maintain a healthy and comfortable environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 6, 2026 7:21 pm