What Renters Can Do If They Have Mold — And the Rights Most People Don’t Know They Have
By Ava Hartwell
One of the most common messages I get is from renters who feel trapped: they suspect mold, they feel sick, and they don’t know what they can legally ask for — or how to ask without risking their housing. This guide is for you.
Important: I’m not a lawyer and this isn’t legal advice. Tenant rights vary by state and city. This post is practical, research-based guidance to help you document, communicate, and find the right local support.
First steps: do this before you “scrub” anything
If you’re renting and you find mold (or a musty smell + water damage), your first instinct is usually to clean. I get it. But as a renter, the smartest first move is to protect your health and protect your paper trail.
- Take photos and video immediately. Get wide shots (room context) and closeups (detail).
- Look for the moisture source. Leak, condensation, plumbing, roof, window intrusion, bathroom vent failure.
- Send a written maintenance request ASAP. Text/email/portal is better than a phone call.
- Avoid “dry scrubbing.” Don’t sand, brush, or blast fans at it — that can spread particles.
- Track symptoms and patterns. Especially “worse at home, better when I leave.”
If that “better when I leave” pattern hits home, I explain why it’s such a major clue here: Why Mold Makes You Feel Worse at Home (And Better the Moment You Leave) .
What landlords are usually required to do
Most states recognize an “implied warranty of habitability,” meaning the landlord must provide a home that’s safe and livable. Laws vary, but persistent mold tied to a building problem often falls under this umbrella.
In plain English, landlords are typically responsible for:
- Repairing leaks (roof, plumbing, windows, siding, foundation)
- Correcting water intrusion and water-damaged materials
- Maintaining ventilation systems (bath fans, HVAC issues that cause moisture)
- Addressing mold that results from building defects or moisture problems
The U.S. EPA is very clear on a point that matters in rentals: mold growth indoors is a moisture problem first. If moisture isn’t fixed, mold returns. (More here: EPA Mold Resources.)
How to document mold (this is what protects renters)
Documentation is what turns “I told them” into “I can prove it.” If there’s ever a dispute, it’s the difference between a messy argument and a clean timeline.
Your documentation checklist
- Photos/video with dates (include a newspaper or your phone lock screen date if you want extra clarity)
- Written requests (email, text, portal screenshots)
- Repair logs (who came, what they did, what they said)
- Humidity readings if you have a cheap hygrometer (date + room)
- Medical notes if you’re symptomatic (even “patient reports symptoms worsen at home”)
- Receipts for anything you buy specifically because of the issue (filters, dehumidifier, etc.)
If your symptoms are cognitive (fog, memory issues, emotional instability), this post may resonate: What Mold Does to Your Brain .
How to notify your landlord (wording that helps)
When you report mold, your goal is to sound calm, specific, and serious. Stick to observable facts: moisture, visible growth, odor, water damage, and how long it’s been present.
Use this framing: “There appears to be a moisture problem causing mold growth/water damage. I’m requesting inspection and repair within a reasonable timeframe.”
Avoid arguing about specific mold species or throwing around labels. You don’t have to “prove” what kind it is to request an inspection and repair for a moisture problem.
If your landlord ignores you or minimizes it
This is where renters feel stuck — and it’s also where having a clean record matters most. Options vary by location, but common next steps include:
- Escalate in writing (a second notice with dates and attachments)
- Request a city/county inspection (housing authority, code enforcement, or health department)
- Contact legal aid or a tenant union in your area
- Ask your doctor to note “symptoms worsen at home” in your chart (it helps build credibility)
A warning about rent withholding
Some states allow it under strict rules; others do not. Don’t withhold rent unless you’ve confirmed your local laws or spoken to local tenant support. The “right” strategy depends on your state and the facts.
If you’re trying to decide whether it’s even safe to remain in the unit while this unfolds, read: Can I Live in a House With Mold? .
Protecting your health while you wait (because the system moves slow)
Even when you do everything “right,” repairs can take time. Meanwhile, your body still has to live there. Here are safer, renter-friendly steps that don’t involve tearing out walls:
- Ventilate when outdoor air quality allows (bathroom/kitchen fans, cracked windows)
- Run HEPA filtration in the bedroom/living space (especially if symptoms flare at night)
- Reduce humidity (aim roughly 30–50% if possible)
- Keep soft items dry (don’t store boxes/clothes against exterior walls)
- Spend time away when symptoms spike (even short breaks can show a pattern)
If you’re considering a HEPA purifier, I have an honest review here: AirDoctor AD3500 Review .
Cleaning mistakes renters make that can make mold worse
I’ve seen so many renters make the same mistake: they try to solve a building moisture problem with cleaning products. Sometimes that backfires — and it can make symptoms worse.
I break down safe vs. harmful approaches here: How to Clean Mold the Right Way (And the Wrong Ways That Made Me Sicker) .
If you want a gentler cleaner for general surfaces (not as a substitute for fixing moisture), here’s my review: Force of Nature Review .
Copy-paste landlord message template
Tip: Attach photos and keep everything in writing.
Subject: Urgent maintenance request — moisture/mold concern in unit
Hello [Landlord/Property Manager Name],
I’m writing to report an ongoing moisture issue and possible mold growth in my rental unit at [address/unit number].
Location: [example: bathroom ceiling / bedroom exterior wall / window frame]
What I’m seeing: [visible discoloration/growth, peeling paint, damp drywall, musty odor]
When it started / how long it’s been present: [date/timeframe]
I’m requesting an inspection and repair of the underlying moisture source as soon as possible. I have attached photos/videos for reference.
Please confirm receipt of this message and provide the next steps and timeline for inspection/repair.
Thank you,
[Your name]
[Phone number]
FAQ
Do I have to prove it’s “toxic mold” before my landlord acts?
In most cases, no. You’re reporting a moisture/habitability issue. Moisture + damage + visible growth/musty odor is enough to request inspection and repair.
What if the landlord says it’s “just mildew”?
Even “mildew” points to moisture and ventilation problems. Keep the conversation focused on repair of the moisture source and proper remediation of damaged materials.
What if I’m afraid of retaliation?
Many states have anti-retaliation protections for tenants who report health and safety issues. Document everything and seek local tenant advocacy support if you feel threatened.
What if I can’t afford to move?
You’re not alone. Focus on documentation, written notice, and local support resources. Protect your bedroom air as best you can, and prioritize the “worse at home/better away” pattern as a signal to take seriously.