Am I Right to Blame My Landlord for Humidity?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from my bedroom closet, which is right next to the bathroom. It's been going on for days now, and it’s really starting to affect how comfortable we are in that room. The AC seems to do its best but can't seem to tackle the humidity. Are landlords typically responsible for dehumidification issues in rentals?
Posted by Pranav Gupta
Asked on January 4, 2026 10:14 pm
Absolutely, it would be reasonable to bring up the issue of humidity to your landlord. In the context of the uae/dubai region, where environmental conditions can significantly impact indoor environments, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining a comfortable and safe living space that is free from excessive moisture-related issues.

In the united arab emirates, particularly in dubai, there are regulations aimed at ensuring proper building maintenance and safety standards. The establishment of such regulations underscores the need for landlords to address humidity concerns promptly and effectively. According to the uae federation of real estate (ufre) guidelines, landlords must ensure that their properties meet certain criteria regarding indoor environmental quality.

Given your specific situation where a musty smell is emanating from your bedroom closet, adjacent to a bathroom, it suggests there might be an issue with moisture or humidity levels in the space. While air conditioning systems can mitigate some of this discomfort, they may not always be sufficient, especially if the underlying causes are not addressed.

First and foremost, i would recommend conducting a professional inspection by contacting an environmental inspection and remediation company like saniservice to assess the situation accurately. This step is crucial as it provides objective data on the current state of your property's indoor environment, which can then be used in discussions with your landlord or tenant representative.

In the meantime, you could take some proactive measures yourself:
• Use a hygrometer to monitor the relative humidity levels in the affected area.
• Ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows when possible and using exhaust fans over bathrooms and kitchens.
• Consider using dehumidifiers temporarily until a professional can offer a more comprehensive solution.

It's important to communicate your concerns clearly to your landlord, providing them with any evidence of moisture or mold damage that you have gathered. Emphasize the health implications associated with prolonged exposure to high humidity levels in residential spaces, as outlined by health authorities like the ministry of community development (mcd) in the uae.

Should your landlord fail to address the issue adequately, you might need to escalate the matter through formal channels or seek legal advice. Remember, your comfort and safety are paramount, and ensuring a healthy indoor environment is not only a personal right but also aligns with the broader standards expected within the property management industry in dubai and across the uae.

If you decide to take further steps, remember that saniservice offers professional assistance at 800-MOLDS or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 7, 2026 1:39 am