Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp and poorly ventilated areas. It can grow almost anywhere but is often found in areas like the bathroom and kitchen. Mould can damage a property, may cause health problems, and should be addressed as soon as practical to avoid further damage.
If there is mould in the property, the tenant/resident must tell the property manager/owner as soon possible. Property managers/owners may check for mould as part of a routine inspection.
The responsibility for cleaning mould, repairing and paying for any damage depends on the cause of the mould.
Certain areas in Queensland are more susceptible to mould than others due to the environment and time of year (e.g. in tropical areas). There is also an increased risk of mould after severe wet weather and natural disasters.
Mould and minimum housing standards
To comply with minimum housing standards, the property manager/owner must ensure the property is free from mould when the tenant/resident moves in and throughout the tenancy. This does not apply if the mould is caused by the tenant/resident.
If the tenant/resident finds mould in the property, they must tell the property manager/owner about the mould as soon as possible. The cleaning and repair process depends on the type of rental agreement in place:
- In general tenancies and moveable dwellings, addressing mould caused by problems with the property is considered an emergency repair.
- In rooming accommodation, addressing mould caused by problems with the room or property is considered a routine repair.
Cleaning mould in a rental property
The responsibility for cleaning mould, repairing and paying for any damage depends on the cause of the mould.
If mould is not cleaned in a reasonable time
There are options if the person responsible for addressing the mould does not do so in a reasonable time. These options depend on whether the mould is being addressed as an emergency or routine repair, and whether the mould is caused by a breach of the agreement. Leaving mould unattended can lead to further damage and costs to repair.
Special terms about mould
The special terms of a tenancy agreement sometimes include responsibilities around preventing and cleaning mould. For example, the special terms could state that the tenant/resident is responsible for everyday upkeep like ventilating the property to reduce the risk of mould.
Special terms about mould may help you decide who is responsible for addressing mould and paying for any damage or repairs. Even if mould is included in the special terms, parties still have their normal responsibilities for maintenance and repairs.
Tenants/residents can’t be required to use a specific business for cleaning mould.
You should discuss any special terms about mould before signing a tenancy agreement.
Mould and natural disasters
Where mould is caused by a natural disaster, the property manager/owner is responsible for addressing it. More information about severe weather and rental properties is available on our natural disasters page.
Disputes about mould
We recommend parties communicate openly and respectfully with each other to decide who is responsible for cleaning mould and repairing any damage. If you are unable to agree, you can apply for free RTA dispute resolution to try and resolve the issue. If you are still unable to agree, parties can choose to apply to QCAT for a decision.
Other information
The Queensland Government has provided more information on how to identify, minimise and clean mould, as well as the potential health risks. If you or anyone in your household is experiencing any health effects from mould, seek medical advice from your doctor.