Mold can harm health and damage property. Whether the landlord or tenant is responsible depends on the cause, your lease and your state, but landlords generally must keep rentals habitable.
Who is responsible
Landlords are usually responsible when mold comes from leaks, flooding, faulty plumbing or poor ventilation they were told about or should have known about. Tenants may be responsible if mold results from their own neglect, such as ignoring spills or failing to ventilate bathrooms. Few states have laws that specifically set mold standards, so general habitability rules often apply.
What to do
- Photograph and date the mold and any water damage.
- Report it to the landlord in writing and keep a copy.
- Allow reasonable time for inspection and repair, and ask for the work plan in writing.
- If nothing happens, contact your local housing or health department for an inspection.
- See a doctor if you have symptoms, and keep records.
Possible remedies
Depending on state law, remedies can include repair and deduct, rent withholding through a court-supervised process, a rent reduction or ending the lease. Misusing these can lead to eviction, so follow your state's steps. See our guide to tenant repairs and habitability.
Protect yourself
- Keep humidity down and ventilate bathrooms and kitchens.
- Report leaks promptly.
- Do not clean up large areas yourself, since it can worsen exposure.
- Move belongings away from affected areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can a landlord evict me for reporting mold?
Many states prohibit retaliation against tenants who report code violations in good faith.
Can I get compensation for ruined belongings?
Possibly. Renter's insurance may help, and you may have a claim against the landlord if they were negligent.