Does landlord handle high humidity issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in my bedroom closet. The humidity levels seem pretty high even with the AC running all day. My landlord mentioned he takes care of these issues, but I’m not sure if that includes dehumidifying our apartment. Does my landlord have responsibility for addressing this, or is it something I should bring up?
Posted by Archana Banerjee
Asked on January 10, 2026 10:56 pm
In the context of Dubai and the UAE, humidity control is indeed an important aspect of indoor environmental quality. When dealing with high humidity issues that persist despite air conditioning (AC) operation, it's essential to understand your responsibilities as a tenant and what measures should be taken.

According to local laws in the UAE, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and general habitability of the property. This includes ensuring that the building envelope is intact and that mechanical systems, such as AC units, are functioning properly. However, specific regulations regarding humidity control can vary slightly among emirates; thus, it's wise to refer to local guidelines or seek legal advice if necessary.

For your particular situation, a musty smell in the bedroom closet could be indicative of high humidity levels, possibly due to external factors such as recent rain affecting the building structure. In Dubai, it is advisable for landlords to take proactive steps to manage moisture and prevent mold growth. This typically involves regular maintenance checks on AC systems, ensuring proper ventilation, and addressing any water infiltration issues.

However, when dealing with persistent high humidity that affects your comfort level or property condition, you should consider taking the following actions:
1. Document the issue: Keep a record of when you first noticed the problem and any subsequent changes in conditions.
2. Communicate with your landlord: Discuss the situation openly and provide specific examples to ensure they understand the extent of the problem.
3. Professional assessment: Consider hiring an independent environmental consultant or HVAC specialist for a thorough inspection. This can help determine if dehumidification is necessary and whether other underlying issues need to be addressed.
4. Follow up: If no improvement occurs, you may need to escalate the issue through your building management or seek legal advice.

In Dubai, the Ministry of Economy has issued guidelines on indoor air quality that emphasize the importance of proper humidity levels for health and comfort. You can find more information on their official website if needed.

Regarding dehumidification, it's a significant step in managing high humidity, especially when AC alone is insufficient. A portable dehumidifier or even better, a whole-house dehumidification system could be beneficial. These systems are particularly useful during times of high outdoor humidity levels such as monsoon seasons or after rainfall events.

Remember, while landlords have primary responsibility for maintaining property conditions, tenants also play an important role in reporting and addressing issues effectively. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your living environment remains healthy and comfortable.

If the situation persists despite all efforts, don't hesitate to reach out to professional services like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for further assistance.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 12, 2026 6:03 am