Should I report mold near chiller unit?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a strange moldy smell in the basement of my rental apartment. It’s coming from somewhere near the chiller unit that is supposed to be keeping the area cool and dry. The landlord hasn’t mentioned anything about it yet, but this moldy odor makes me suspicious. Should I bring this up with them or might it fall under their maintenance responsibilities?
Posted by Steven White
Asked on February 11, 2026 11:08 am
Absolutely, you should definitely bring up the moldy smell near your chiller unit to your landlord. In the UAE, particularly within the stringent guidelines set by the Building Control Department and the Dubai Municipality, landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure that their properties are safe for tenants. Mold growth can pose significant health risks, especially in areas like basements where humidity levels might naturally be higher.

The chiller unit is an integral part of your apartment's HVAC system and its malfunction or improper maintenance could indeed lead to moisture accumulation and subsequent mold growth. It’s essential to address this promptly as mold not only affects air quality but can also cause structural damage over time, impacting the efficiency of cooling systems and increasing energy consumption.

Before raising concerns with your landlord, it would be wise to conduct a preliminary inspection yourself to gather evidence. Use a digital camera or smartphone to capture images of the mold growth and take note of any visible signs such as dampness on walls or floors around the chiller unit. Documenting these conditions can strengthen your case for remediation.

If you feel uncomfortable tackling this issue directly, consider reaching out to professional environmental inspectors like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or by emailing hello@saniservice.com. These experts will provide a detailed assessment and recommend appropriate remediation measures based on their expertise.

Remember that in Dubai, it is mandatory for landlords to ensure properties meet safety standards, which include preventing mold growth through proper maintenance practices. By bringing this matter to the landlord’s attention, you are exercising your rights as a tenant while ensuring the health and safety of both yourself and other residents.

Do not hesitate if the situation persists or worsens; timely action is crucial in addressing mold issues effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 12, 2026 2:44 pm