Should I address the musty smell with my landlord?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell creeping into my bedroom, especially during the cooler evenings. It’s not just in one spot; it seems to be coming from everywhere in the room. The landlord hasn’t mentioned anything about it, and I’m unsure if this is something I should address or if he will handle it. Should I bring this up with him, or is there a reason why he might not be aware of it yet?
Posted by Anjali Mukherjee
Asked on December 7, 2025 6:04 pm
Absolutely, addressing the musty smell is crucial. In the UAE, particularly in regions like Dubai, it’s quite common to experience such odors due to high humidity levels, especially during cooler evenings post-rainfall. This can be indicative of moisture-related issues that need immediate attention.

Firstly, you should definitely bring this up with your landlord. The musty smell could suggest underlying problems such as mold growth or dampness in the walls and ceiling. In Dubai, it is expected that landlords are responsible for maintaining a safe living environment for tenants. However, it’s always good to communicate effectively about any issues observed.

To properly address this situation, I recommend engaging a professional environmental inspection company like Saniservice. They can perform a thorough inspection to identify the source of the musty smell and assess if there's active mold growth or other moisture-related concerns. For instance, they might use tools such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint hidden water damage.

In terms of practical steps you can take before engaging professionals:
• Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows when possible.
• Use dehumidifiers in affected areas to reduce moisture levels.
• Check for any visible signs of dampness or mold, particularly behind curtains, on window sills, or near leaking pipes.
• Keep the area dry and clean; avoid storing items that may retain moisture.

The UAE has specific regulations regarding indoor air quality and health standards. The building codes in Dubai require regular maintenance checks to ensure buildings are free from moisture-related issues which can lead to mold growth. If you find that your landlord is not responsive, it’s advisable to document the issue with photos or videos for evidence and follow up through emails or letters.

Remember, while addressing such concerns might seem like a hassle, ignoring them could result in significant health impacts due to mold exposure. According to studies, prolonged exposure to mold can lead to respiratory issues, skin rashes, and other allergic reactions. Therefore, it's crucial to take proactive measures to ensure your health and the well-being of any occupants.

If you find that your landlord is not responsive or if the smell persists despite efforts, don't hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance. They can provide expert guidance and necessary remediation services to tackle the issue effectively.

Remember, it’s always better to be proactive in such situations; maintaining a healthy living environment is paramount.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 10, 2025 9:44 am