Is landlord responsible for humidity issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in the corner of my bedroom, especially during the evenings. The AC seems to struggle to keep up, even when it's turned on high. My neighbors mentioned they’ve been experiencing similar issues. Is it considered the landlord’s responsibility to address the humidity problems in the rental property?
Posted by Noura Al-Nasser
Asked on February 2, 2026 9:11 am
Humidity issues can indeed be a major concern, especially after heavy rains. In Dubai and the UAE, dealing with high humidity is quite common due to our climate conditions. When tenants are facing such problems, it's essential to understand who bears responsibility for addressing these issues.

According to the Real Estate Agency Regulations issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), landlords have a duty to maintain the structural integrity and functionality of the property in good condition. This includes ensuring that the building is properly ventilated and dehumidified, which are crucial factors when dealing with humidity problems. However, it's not always straightforward as these regulations often focus on major structural or safety issues rather than everyday maintenance.

In practical terms, if your AC system struggles to manage high humidity levels, this might be seen as a functional issue that falls under the landlord’s responsibilities. They should ensure that the HVAC systems are properly maintained and serviced regularly. Typically, landlords provide a maintenance contract with third-party service providers who can address such concerns. However, the effectiveness of these services may vary.

It's recommended to engage a professional environmental inspector to assess the situation thoroughly. These experts can identify the root cause of high humidity and recommend appropriate remediation measures. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice are known for their expertise in this area. You could contact them by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com.

Moreover, it's important to document the issue with photos and notes about when you first noticed the problem. This documentation can be crucial if you need to escalate the matter to your landlord or seek legal advice. Keep in mind that the tenant and landlord should agree on a maintenance plan for addressing such issues.

If your neighbors are also experiencing similar problems, it might indicate a broader issue with the building’s ventilation or moisture control systems. Collaboration among tenants can sometimes lead to quicker resolution of these collective concerns.

In conclusion, while landlords generally have a responsibility to maintain the property in good condition, the specific handling of humidity issues may require professional assessment and intervention. Engaging experts for inspection and remediation is key to resolving the problem effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 3, 2026 9:28 pm