Who fixes musty AC smell: tenant or landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the UAE Civil Code, specifically Law No. (5) of 1985, and standard tenancy contract terms in Dubai, the responsibility for maintaining the central air conditioning system, including the ductwork and AHU (Air Handling Unit), typically falls upon the landlord. This is considered a structural and integral part of the property's provision of a habitable environment.

A musty odor emanating from the AC vents upon startup is a classic indicator of microbial growth—likely mold or mildew—within the system. The UAE's high humidity, especially during the hotter months when ACs run continuously, creates significant condensation within the evaporator coils and drip pans. If this moisture is not properly drained or if there is a blockage, it becomes a breeding ground for mold, which is then aerosolized and circulated throughout your apartment.

As the tenant, your responsibility is generally limited to changing the regular air filters and reporting the issue promptly in writing to your landlord or property management company. You should document the communication. They are then obligated to arrange for a professional inspection and subsequent remediation.

This is not a minor issue; inhaling mold spores can pose serious health risks. A proper inspection involves using borescopes to view inside ductwork and surface sampling to identify the contaminant type. DIY cleaning is ineffective and can aggravate the problem.

For a professional assessment and certified hygienization service, we strongly recommend you call our specialists at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. We can provide a detailed report for your landlord, outlining the cause and the necessary remediation protocol to resolve the odor and ensure healthy indoor air quality.