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

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of the living room near the windows. My landlord hasn’t mentioned anything about dehumidification or extra maintenance tasks, but I’m worried it might be our responsibility. Do you think I should bring this up with him or is there something else we can do to address the humidity issue?
Posted by Youssef Al-Nahyan
Asked on January 12, 2026 1:04 am
Absolutely, you should address the humidity issue with your landlord. In dubai and the uae, we are often dealing with high moisture levels due to our climate which can lead to issues like mold growth, musty smells, and structural damage if left unchecked. The recent rains might have exacerbated existing conditions or created new ones.

Firstly, it’s important to note that in the uae, according to the real estate laws, landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity and ensuring a livable environment. This includes addressing moisture-related issues like dehumidification. However, tenants also have responsibilities such as keeping their living areas clean and dry.

To properly address this situation, you should first take some preliminary steps:
1. Assess the extent of the problem: Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels in your living room and any affected areas. Normal indoor relative humidity (rh) should be between 30% - 50%. If readings are consistently above 60%, dehumidification might be necessary.
2. Check for sources of moisture: Inspect windows, doors, plumbing, and roof for leaks or condensation.
3. Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your home to reduce humidity levels.

If the issue persists despite these measures, it's advisable to contact a professional environmental inspection company like saniservice.com who can perform a thorough assessment using advanced equipment such as thermography and moisture meters. They can also recommend appropriate dehumidification solutions tailored to your specific situation.

In Dubai, you might consider installing a portable or whole-house dehumidifier depending on the severity of the issue. Portable units are good for small areas while whole-house systems offer more comprehensive coverage but come with higher upfront costs and energy consumption.

If after all these steps, your landlord still refuses to address the problem, you may need to escalate it through the real estate agency or even legal channels. Remember that under uae law, tenants have rights regarding their living conditions.

Call 800-MOLDS for professional advice and assistance in managing indoor environmental quality issues. We understand the importance of a healthy living environment and are here to help you navigate these challenges effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 13, 2026 1:00 pm