Minimum housing standards came into effect for new tenancies from 1 September 2023, meaning if a tenancy agreement is signed or renewed from this date, the property must meet minimum housing standards. 

Minimum housing standards come into effect for all remaining tenancies from 1 September 2024. These new standards apply to all types of tenancies, including general tenancies, moveable dwellings, and rooming accommodation.

To comply with minimum housing standards, the property manager/owner must ensure the premises is free from mould when the tenant moves in and throughout the tenancy. The exception is if the mould is caused by the actions of the tenant.

If mould becomes present in a rental property, the tenant should notify the property manager/owner as soon as they are aware of the mould issue.  

Deciding who is responsible for cleaning mould and repairing any resultant damage depends on how the mould appeared in the first place.  

If mould is a result of problems with the property (for example, a leaking roof, or water damage caused by leaking pipework), it is the property manager/owner’s responsibility to address the mould and make any necessary repairs. 

If the tenant has caused the mould to appear (for example, by allowing steam to build up in a bathroom without proper ventilation and/or regular cleaning), they are responsible for cleaning it and paying for any damages that the mould has caused.