Mould spores are everywhere—in the air, on walls, under carpets, even clinging to clothing. On their own, they’re invisible and harmless. But when combined with moisture and poor airflow, they grow into the musty, black stains tenants dread—and landlords fear.
According to Australian housing reports, nearly 49% of rental homes experience mould issues at some point. And in humid cities like Brisbane, it’s not a matter of if mould will appear—it’s a matter of when.
So let’s tackle the real issue: Who is responsible for cleaning mould?
Is it the tenant’s duty to scrub the walls clean, or should the landlord step in with professional help?
Let’s break it all down.
What Causes Mould in a Rental Property?
Before assigning blame, let’s understand the science behind mould.
Mould thrives when these three conditions exist:
- Persistent moisture (from leaks, flooding, or condensation)
- Poor ventilation (in bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms)
- A suitable surface like wood, drywall, or dust
In other words, every poorly ventilated or water-damaged space becomes a breeding ground. And in Brisbane—where subtropical weather meets older rental properties—mould can become a year-round tenant.
This makes one thing very clear: understanding the cause is key to determining who is responsible for mould in a rental property.
Legal Responsibilities: Landlord vs. Tenant
In Queensland, tenancy law outlines the obligations of both landlords and tenants when it comes to maintenance and cleanliness.
Landlords are responsible for:
- Ensuring the property is structurally sound and fit to live in
- Addressing mould caused by defects such as leaking roofs or plumbing
- Acting promptly after being notified of a moisture-related issue
Tenants are responsible for:
- Keeping the rental clean and adequately ventilated
- Using fans and windows to reduce moisture buildup
- Reporting mould issues or water leaks quickly
So, who is responsible for cleaning mould in Brisbane rental homes?
It depends on the cause. If mould is due to property faults, it’s the landlord’s job to fix the issue. But if it’s from tenant lifestyle choices, like never opening windows or failing to report small problems early, the tenant may be held accountable.
Are Tenants Responsible for Cleaning Mould?
Yes, in certain cases.
If mould forms due to actions (or inactions) by the tenant, such as:
- Not ventilating the bathroom during showers
- Drying clothes inside with no airflow
- Letting spills or damp areas go uncleaned
…then the tenant may be responsible for cleaning mould and keeping it from spreading.
It’s also worth checking your lease. Many tenancy agreements include specific clauses stating that the tenant must keep the property free from damage and maintain hygienic living conditions. If you’ve ignored visible mould for weeks, that could be seen as neglect.
Still, cleaning minor mould from a tiled wall is different from dealing with hidden damage behind plasterboard. For more severe cases, landlords need to be involved.
Landlord or Tenant Mould Removal Responsibility
Let’s break it down using everyday rental scenarios:
Scenario 1: Mould is growing near the ceiling, right beneath a roof leak. The wall is damp, and you’ve noticed watermarks when it rains.
This is caused by structural damage.
Answer: The landlord is responsible.
Scenario 2: You’ve never used the bathroom exhaust fan, and the door stays closed after hot showers. Now, there’s black mould on the ceiling.
This is caused by lack of ventilation.
Answer: The tenant is responsible.
Scenario 3: Mould forms on your bedroom walls despite regular cleaning. You report it, and a building inspection finds rising damp due to poor drainage outside.
This is a construction flaw.
Answer: The landlord is responsible.
When it’s unclear who is responsible, consider involving a licensed building inspector. Their professional report can help resolve disputes—and support claims during tribunal hearings.
Mould in Rental Property Brisbane – A Growing Concern
With Brisbane’s heavy rains, high humidity, and ageing rental stock, mould in rental property Brisbane is almost expected.
Tenants in areas like South Brisbane, Indooroopilly, and Fortitude Valley commonly face:
- Damp bedrooms
- Mouldy wardrobes
- Leaky ceilings
- Blackened bathroom tiles
While some of these cases are lifestyle-related, many stem from outdated plumbing or poor building design.
That’s why it’s so important for both landlords and tenants to work together. Preventive maintenance can stop the blame game before it begins.
What if the Landlord Won’t Fix Mould Problem?
If your landlord isn’t responding, here’s how to protect yourself.
- Document everything. Take dated photos, keep emails, and track your reports.
- Submit a formal repair request through writing—text messages aren’t enough.
- Contact the RTA (Residential Tenancies Authority) if no progress is made.
- File a case with QCAT, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, to request repairs or compensation.
If the landlord won’t fix mould problem caused by structural or repair issues, they may be in breach of their legal duties.
But remember: You must follow the correct process. Don’t withhold rent or make deductions unless advised by legal experts.
Can I Refuse to Pay Rent Because of Mould?
This is a common question—and a tricky one. Technically, no. Not unless:
- The mould presents a serious health risk
- You’ve made written requests with no result
- You’ve gone through formal channels with the RTA or QCAT
Withholding rent without following procedure can result in eviction or legal trouble. So even if you feel justified, play by the rules. Legal support is available, and your case is stronger when it’s well-documented and properly escalated.
Tenant Health Risks from Mould
Let’s talk about why this matters.
Mould isn’t just cosmetic—it can be a genuine health hazard. For tenants, exposure to indoor mould can lead to:
- Breathing difficulties
- Allergic skin reactions
- Sinus infections
- Headaches and fatigue
- Asthma flare-ups
Children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable.
If mould is affecting your health, see a doctor, get a medical report, and notify your landlord. Your health is a valid reason to escalate the situation quickly.
Mould in Apartment: Who to Call?
If you’re living in a Brisbane apartment and see signs of serious mould:
- Contact your property manager or landlord right away
- Call a licensed mould removal professional like Bond Cleaning Service for an assessment.
- Reach out to RTA for advice if the issue is unresolved
- If necessary, contact a tenant support service
Make sure to get every agreement or denial in writing. If mould has damaged your belongings, keep evidence for insurance or compensation claims.
Tips to Prevent Mould as a Tenant
Want to avoid the whole mess altogether? Prevention is your best defence.
Here’s what tenants in Brisbane can do:
- Open windows daily to boost air circulation
- Use fans and exhaust systems during showers and cooking
- Avoid drying clothes indoors
- Leave space between furniture and walls
- Wipe down damp surfaces regularly
- Use moisture absorbers during the humid season
- Report water damage immediately
By being proactive, you protect your living space—and your rights as a tenant.
Need Professional Help with End-of-Lease Mould Cleaning?
Don’t let mould cost you your bond—or your peace of mind. Whether you’re a tenant preparing to move out or a landlord looking to restore a rental to its best condition, expert help makes all the difference.
Bond Cleaning Service provides expert bond cleaning in Brisbane, serving Brisbane and surrounding areas with prompt, reliable, and thorough cleaning solutions tailored to rental property standards.
Secure your bond refund and breathe easier—literally.
