Should I address musty smell and wall patches as tenant?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, and upon inspecting it closely, I found what looked like dark patches on some of the walls. It's been bothering me since it could be a health hazard, but I’m not sure if I should address this as a tenant or if it’s something the landlord is responsible for. Have any of you encountered similar issues in your rental properties and how did you handle it?
Posted by Matthew Walker
Asked on January 10, 2026 12:45 am
Absolutely, the musty smell and visible patches on your walls definitely warrant attention. In the UAE, particularly within properties like yours in Dubai, such conditions might indicate the presence of hidden mold, which could indeed pose a serious health hazard.

First off, it's crucial to differentiate between just a musty odor and actual signs of mold growth. The dark patches you've noticed on your walls are typical of water-damaged areas that may have harbored mold. However, remember that not all musty odors are caused by mold; they can also be due to dampness or even old mildew.

Given the UAE's climate, especially in places like Dubai where rainfall might lead to unexpected moisture issues within buildings, it’s advisable to seek professional assessment and remediation services immediately. The local regulations often require landlords to maintain properties in a safe condition for tenants; however, as per UAE Law 18 of 2003 concerning real estate, tenants also have responsibilities regarding the upkeep of their living spaces.

I strongly recommend contacting professional environmental inspection companies such as Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com). They can provide a thorough evaluation using advanced detection methods like moisture meters and thermal imaging to pinpoint hidden mold growth. This is particularly important given the potential health risks associated with mycotoxins released by certain molds.

Moreover, addressing this issue as soon as possible could prevent further damage to your property and protect you from respiratory issues and other health problems linked to prolonged exposure to mold spores. Once identified, professional remediation will ensure that all affected areas are properly cleaned and treated according to the latest standards set forth in environmental guidelines for Dubai.

In the meantime, avoid touching or disturbing any suspicious patches to prevent further spread of potential mold growth. Keep windows closed if there's an ongoing moisture issue as this can help reduce humidity levels inside your home.

By taking these steps, you'll not only ensure the health and safety of yourself and potentially others in the property but also comply with local regulations regarding tenant rights and responsibilities.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 12, 2026 6:29 am