Who is responsible for AC duct cleaning in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

As a specialist in Dubai's indoor environmental quality, this is a very common issue we encounter, especially during the high-humidity summer months in communities like JVC. The musty odor, particularly at startup, coupled with the damp smell on your clothes, are classic indicators of microbial growth, likely mold, within the AC system.

Legally, the responsibility for maintenance of the central AC system, including the ductwork, typically falls on the building owner or management company, as per standard Dubai rental contracts (EJARI). The tenant is usually responsible for the maintenance of internal units, like fan coil filters. However, the exact demarcation can depend on your specific tenancy agreement. The first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing about the issue. They are generally obligated to provide a habitable environment, and a mold-contaminated AC system violates that.

Given the symptoms you describe, a professional inspection is strongly advised. DIY solutions won't address the root cause, which is often a combination of condensation issues, inadequate drainage, or insulation failures within the ductwork. We use borescope cameras to inspect the ducts and surface sampling to identify the contaminant type.

For a definitive assessment and to get the evidence needed for your landlord, I recommend calling our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We can provide a detailed report that clearly outlines the cause and remediation path, which you can then present to your property manager. Ignoring this can lead to worsened air quality and potential health effects.