Who is responsible for high humidity?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we had last month, I noticed a distinct dampness creeping into my bedroom closet. The AC in my apartment seems to struggle with it too, as the condenser keeps shutting off unexpectedly. My landlord mentioned something about maintenance, but didn't seem very concerned. Given that we've lived here for two years and this issue has only just started, who is responsible for addressing this high humidity problem—me or the landlord?
Posted by Pierre Richard
Asked on December 6, 2025 10:48 am
High humidity can indeed cause discomfort and potential damage to properties. In the context of Dubai and the UAE, where climate conditions are often challenging, it is crucial to understand who is responsible for addressing such issues.

Firstly, based on the UAE's Building Code and the real estate laws, landlords have a primary responsibility to maintain the structural integrity and livability of their property. This includes ensuring that the building’s mechanical systems, including air conditioning (AC), are functioning properly. The AC system in your apartment seems to be struggling with high humidity levels, which could indicate an issue requiring maintenance or even replacement.

From a legal standpoint, if you've lived in the same unit for two years and this high humidity problem has only just started, it's reasonable to expect that the landlord should address this concern. However, many factors can contribute to such issues; therefore, a professional environmental inspection is recommended to determine the exact cause of the moisture intrusion.

High humidity can lead to several problems in residential buildings, including mold growth, structural damage, and health concerns for occupants. It's important to identify the source of excess moisture: whether it's due to improper ventilation, leaks, or an inefficient AC system. In Dubai, where high humidity is a common issue during certain periods, maintaining proper indoor air quality can be challenging.

To address this situation effectively:
1. Contact Your Landlord: Begin by formally informing your landlord about the issue and requesting a maintenance check.
2. Professional Inspection: Engage a certified environmental inspector to assess the condition of your apartment. This will help in determining whether the AC needs service, if there are any hidden leaks or moisture sources, or even issues with the building's insulation.
3. Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and evidence of the high humidity levels (e.g., photos, notes on condensation). This documentation can be useful if you need to escalate the issue further.

In Dubai, it’s common for AC units to struggle in humid conditions due to their design and operation principles; thus, regular maintenance is crucial. If your landlord isn’t responsive or dismissive of the problem, consider reaching out to local tenant advocacy groups or legal advice for guidance on how to proceed.

Remember, maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment should be a collaborative effort between tenants and landlords. By working together with professional assistance when necessary, you can ensure that any high humidity issues are effectively managed.

If you feel overwhelmed by the process, feel free to contact our services at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for support.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 9, 2025 1:26 am