Mould Never Sleeps — Neither Should Your Response

The first sign is often subtle. A faint musty smell. A shadow in the corner of the ceiling. By the time a tenant mentions it, mould has already set up camp and ignoring it is the fastest way for a landlord to turn a small repair into a big legal and financial headache.

In property management, mould is more than a maintenance issue. It is a health concern, a tenant rights matter, and a compliance obligation. Handling it poorly can lead to compensation claims, fines, or even tribunal orders. Handling it well can preserve both your property’s condition and your tenant relationship.

Why Prompt Action Matters

Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces. Left untreated, it spreads quickly, damaging walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture. Tenants are legally entitled to a safe, habitable property, and mould can be deemed to make a property uninhabitable. Delays in treatment can mean you are paying for far more than a clean-up.

Understanding the Landlord’s Responsibility

While each case is unique, landlords are generally responsible for mould caused by structural or maintenance issues such as leaks, poor ventilation, or drainage problems. Tenants may be responsible if mould growth stems from their lifestyle habits, but even then it is often in a landlord’s interest to act fast to prevent further damage.

The Best Approach for Landlords

• Act immediately when a complaint is reported
• Arrange professional inspection and remediation rather than relying on a surface clean
• Address the root cause such as leaks, broken gutters, or poor airflow
• Document everything including inspections, communication, and completed works
• Follow up to ensure the mould has not returned

Protecting Your Investment

A mould-free property is not just about compliance. It protects your asset’s long-term value, keeps tenants satisfied, and reduces vacancy risk. Tenants who feel their concerns are taken seriously are more likely to renew leases, saving you marketing costs and downtime.

If you receive a mould complaint, act like the value of your property depends on it because it does.

For expert management that protects your property and resolves issues before they escalate, contact Club Property Management at leasing@clubpropertymanagement.com.au