Common Mould Issues in Rental Properties
Mould problems are one of the most frequent disputes in rental tenancies, as highlighted by real estate experts and tenancy advocates. In Queensland, Tenants Queensland receives an average of one complaint a day from tenants reporting mould issues in their homes. According to Julie Bartlett, principal solicitor at Tenants Queensland, these complaints can range from long-standing mould that was thought to have been fixed to new tenants moving into properties that were previously flooded and not properly remediated.
Recent rains may also contribute to mould issues in properties that haven’t had time to dry out, especially if there is inadequate ventilation. This raises the question: who is responsible for cleaning or removing mould in a rental property?
Why Mould is a Concern
Mould is a type of fungus that exists almost everywhere, playing a vital role in our ecosystem. However, when it grows inside homes due to factors like flood damage, plumbing leaks, or damp and humid conditions, it can pose serious health risks. Mould spores, which are airborne, can trigger allergic and respiratory symptoms such as nasal congestion, wheezing, watery or itchy eyes, coughing, and respiratory infections.
What to Do If You Notice Mould
Experts advise tenants to report signs of mould or damp as soon as they appear. Stewart Bunn, corporate affairs manager from First National Real Estate, emphasizes that early intervention is usually simpler, cheaper, and more effective than waiting for the problem to worsen. Alex Bomford, acting principal solicitor at the Tenants Union of Tasmania, recommends that tenants document and report the issue promptly.
“Take a photo and send it in an email to your landlord or real estate agent so that you have a paper trail showing you’ve notified them of the problem,” he says. “Secondly, try to identify the source of the problem if it’s obvious.”
Ms. Bartlett adds that reporting the issue in writing creates evidence that the lessor was informed, starting a repair or investigation process. She advises tenants to look for signs such as discolouration, musty smells, hidden mould under carpets, or leaks.
Should You Clean Mould Yourself?
If the cause of the mould isn’t clear, Mr. Bomford suggests tenants clean the mould themselves in a safe manner, depending on where it’s located. He recommends using heating and ventilation, dehumidifiers, and cleaning within reasonable limits while documenting the steps taken.
Immunologist and allergy specialist Sheryl van Nunen from Sydney recommends using a vinegar solution instead of bleach to remove mould. “Bleach leaves behind background levels of mould spores, whereas vinegar effectively removes it,” she says. Victoria Health also advises opening doors and windows before cleaning to allow air circulation, and wearing protective gear such as an N-95 mask and eye goggles.
Avoid brushing the mouldy area to prevent spores from becoming airborne. Throw out items that cannot be cleaned, such as cardboard boxes and mattresses.
What If Mould Gets Worse?
If the mould problem persists or recurs, it may indicate a structural issue, according to experts. Mr. Bunn explains that if mould develops due to a leaking roof, faulty plumbing, defective windows, or poor ventilation, the responsibility typically falls on the landlord. In cases where mould presents a genuine health risk, it may be considered an urgent repair under residential tenancy laws.
Legislation varies between states and territories, but property managers generally expect landlords to authorise appropriate investigations and remediation once they’re notified of the problem. The timing of the mould can also be a clue for tenants. If it appears shortly after moving in, it may suggest a pre-existing issue with the property.
Mr. Bomford notes that in some states and territories, there is no obligation for landlords to disclose previous mould issues to new tenants. However, in Victoria, landlords must disclose any structural mould problem from the past five years. In Queensland, recent changes to minimum housing standards require lessors to ensure premises are free from mould.
Your Rights if the Issue Isn’t Fixed
If documented evidence and emails to the lessor aren’t resolving the problem, it may be time to contact a tenant advocacy group or lodge a complaint with the relevant tribunal. These organizations have the power to order landlords and agents to carry out repairs if they refuse to do so.
Ms. Bartlett explains that tenants can claim a rent reduction if they’re unable to use part of the house due to mould issues or need to relocate temporarily. They may also seek termination of the lease if the issue remains unresolved, arguing that it’s a breach of the tenancy agreement. In such cases, compensation for early termination could be possible.
