Should I address humidity issues with my landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Absolutely, addressing humidity issues is crucial for maintaining indoor environmental quality. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, high humidity levels are a common issue due to the climate and the fact that air conditioning systems can struggle during humid months. The scenario you've described, where your bedroom closet has a persistent musty smell despite airing it out, suggests that there might be elevated moisture levels causing mold growth or other issues.

Firstly, it is important to understand that in Dubai, according to local building codes and standards like EN 15232, which applies to building moisture management, landlords are generally responsible for ensuring the structure and systems of the property meet certain standards. However, individual tenant responsibilities can sometimes overlap, especially when it comes to maintaining HVAC and dehumidification systems.

You should certainly raise this issue with your landlord as part of a proactive approach to indoor air quality. Here’s what you can do:

1. Document the Issue: Take photos or videos of the affected area to provide visual evidence. Note down the dates, times, and any changes in conditions that might help track the humidity levels.

2. Professional Assessment: Consider scheduling an inspection with a professional environmental consultancy firm like Saniservice. They can conduct thorough tests for mold, moisture content in walls and floors, and overall indoor air quality. This is especially important since high humidity can lead to more severe issues such as structural damage or respiratory health problems.

3. Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with local guidelines on indoor environmental quality and dehumidification standards. The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) offers resources that might be useful in understanding your rights and responsibilities.

4. Communication with Landlord: Approach the conversation with your landlord as a collaborative effort to ensure both parties are aware of potential health risks and property damages caused by excessive moisture. Be prepared to present evidence and discuss possible solutions such as improved dehumidification systems or air circulation enhancements.

5. Regular Maintenance: Once an issue is identified, advocate for regular maintenance of HVAC units. In Dubai’s climate, filters should be changed frequently, and systems should undergo periodic servicing to ensure they operate efficiently.

If your landlord remains unresponsive, you might need to take further steps such as contacting the relevant authorities or seeking legal advice. However, it's often beneficial to start with a direct conversation, as many landlords are willing to address these issues once informed about potential risks.

Remember, addressing humidity issues promptly can prevent more serious problems down the line and ensure a healthier living environment for you and your family.