Mould – Who is Responsible is a common question in rental agreements. Deciding who is responsible for cleaning mould depends on how it appeared in the first place. Generally, if the mould is a result of problems with the property, it is the owner’s responsibility to make any necessary repairs and clean the mould. If the mould is from the environment or just normal living then this is the responsibility of the tenant.
It is very important to deal with mould quickly and thoroughly when it appears.
Mould from a leak – Owner
The owner would be responsible for the mould if it was from a leak in the wall or ceiling – this is generally a large wet patch yellowing the paint (water mark) followed by mould afterwards.
Environmental mould – Tenant
This is mould that is caused from the environment – steam from cooking, hot showers, air cons or humidifiers, even beathing can cause mould. Constant wet weather can also cause mould to build up.
This type of mould can gather on windows, walls and ceilings and is often like a sheet of black spots. Mould – Who is Responsible also depends on how well the property is ventilated and maintained. Mould will often be worse in Winter but can occur any time of year. Most homes will get mould, so you do need to clean it regularly.
Shower silicon and grout is also a haven for mould, if there was no mould at the start of your tenancy then you need to clean it regularly, otherwise you may have to have it re-silicone when you vacate.
The best thing to use is Exit mould – but spray and leave it on – don’t wipe it off. (But make sure you move all furniture or throw a white sheet down before spraying as this can bleach coloured items).
Or if you are wanting to use something without chemicals, try clove oil.
You may also want to use a Hippo or Damp rid buckets. These are small buckets that have bean bag beans in them that draw the moisture from the air into them. They will slowly fill up with water and then you simply throw them out. Be careful where you place them as they can fill with water quickly if not monitored.
FAQs
Who is responsible for mould in a rental property – the landlord or tenant?
Responsibility for mould in a rental depends on the cause. If mould is due to structural issues like leaks or poor ventilation, the landlord is responsible. If it results from lifestyle factors—such as steam from cooking, showers, or poor airflow—the tenant is usually required to manage and clean it.
What does the law say about mould – who is responsible in Australia?
Under Australian tenancy law, landlords must provide a safe and habitable property. If mould appears due to maintenance issues, they must fix it. However, if the mould is caused by the tenant’s use of the property and lack of ventilation, tenants are typically responsible for cleaning it and preventing further build-up.
Is mould caused by weather or condensation the tenant’s responsibility?
Yes, mould caused by condensation, everyday living, or wet weather is generally considered the tenant’s responsibility. Tenants are expected to manage indoor moisture through proper ventilation and regular cleaning, especially in high-risk areas like bathrooms and windows.
