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

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of my bedroom. My landlord has been very busy with new tenants moving in, so I’m not sure if he’s responsible for this or if it might be something we need to address together. Could anyone here share what their experience is with mold in rental properties?
Posted by Jean Kowalczyk
Asked on February 22, 2026 2:50 am
Absolutely, it's crucial to address the musty smell with your landlord. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, mold growth can be quite common due to high humidity and occasional rainfall, especially after intense storms or heavy monsoons. The musty odor you're noticing is a strong indicator of potential mold presence.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that while some minor issues might not necessitate professional intervention, more serious cases should definitely warrant immediate attention from an expert. In the UAE, regulations require landlords to maintain properties in good condition, but dealing with mold often falls under specific guidelines which can be complex and vary slightly by emirate.

Given your landlord's current focus on new tenants, it’s wise to take initiative rather than waiting for them to address the issue. You should schedule a professional inspection as soon as possible. A certified environmental inspector will assess the extent of any mold problem and provide recommendations for remediation. The service provider I recommend in Dubai is Saniservice, known for their expertise in mold management.

To avoid any potential disputes, it's crucial to document everything – take photos of the affected areas, note down when you first noticed the smell, and keep a record of all communications with your landlord regarding this issue. If necessary, you can refer to UAE’s real estate laws which provide tenants with certain rights, including protection against health hazards in their living environment.

If the mold situation is severe or if your landlord fails to take action despite multiple reminders, consider escalating the matter through official channels such as the Dubai Municipality or other consumer protection organizations. They can offer guidance and ensure that necessary actions are taken to protect both tenants' and landlords' rights.

Lastly, be proactive about addressing this issue; waiting could lead to more extensive damage and health risks for yourself and future tenants. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection today. Remember, early detection is key in managing mold effectively.

Do not ignore the musty smell; take prompt action to ensure your safety and the well-being of your living space.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 24, 2026 2:12 am