Phone answered 24/7 · Detroit, MI and nearby communities

Call 24/7: (313) 766-2970
Belle Isle Dry-Out ProsWater Damage Help · Detroit, MI

How Do You Handle Mold in an Apartment Complex?

Last updated October 25, 2026

Call Now (313) 766-2970

The short answer

Report Mold to Your Landlord

When you spot mold in your apartment, tell your landlord or property manager in writing. Keep a copy of your message and note the date. This creates a record that you reported the problem, which can be important later. If the mold is small, like on a bathroom ceiling, you might clean it yourself with soap and water. But if the mold covers a large area, you need professional help.

Your landlord is responsible for keeping the property habitable. Mold can be a health hazard, especially for people with allergies or asthma. If the landlord does not respond, you can contact your local housing authority. They can inspect the unit and require the landlord to fix the problem. Remember to take photos of the mold before any cleaning or repair work starts.

Protect Your Health First

Mold can trigger allergic reactions, coughing, and breathing problems. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. While waiting for professional help, you can reduce exposure by closing off the affected room and using an air purifier with a HEPA filter. Avoid touching mold with bare hands. Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection if you must be near it.

Do not try to remove large mold patches yourself. Disturbing mold can release spores into the air, making the problem worse. Keep the area dry and well-ventilated, but do not run fans that might blow spores into other rooms. If you have a chronic respiratory condition, consider staying elsewhere until the mold is handled.

  • Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection
  • Close doors to the affected room
  • Use a HEPA air purifier if available
  • Avoid touching mold with bare hands
  • Keep the area dry and ventilated
  • See a doctor if you feel unwell

Document Everything for Your Records

Take clear photos and videos of the mold, the affected surfaces, and any water stains. Note the size of the area and how long the mold has been present. Keep copies of all written communication with your landlord, including emails and letters. This documentation helps if you need to involve a housing authority or your insurance company.

If you have renters insurance, check your policy to see if it covers mold damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies cover mold if it results from a covered water loss, like a burst pipe. Others exclude mold entirely. Keep all receipts for any cleaning supplies or temporary lodging, as you may be able to seek reimbursement.

When to Call Water Damage Pros

If the mold covers more than a small patch, or if it keeps coming back, you need professional help. Water damage pros can find the source of moisture, which is the root cause of mold. They use moisture mapping to identify hidden dampness behind walls and under floors. This helps them target the cleanup and prevent regrowth.

The pros will contain the area to stop spores from spreading. They may remove affected drywall, insulation, or carpet. Then they use structural drying and dehumidification to remove excess moisture. This process can take several days, depending on the extent of the damage. After the area is dry, they can repair the surfaces and apply mold-resistant treatments.

  • Locate the source of moisture
  • Contain the affected area
  • Remove porous materials like drywall and carpet
  • Dry the structure with dehumidifiers
  • Repair and treat surfaces to resist mold

Prevent Mold from Returning

Once the mold is gone, keep your apartment dry. Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen, especially after showering or cooking. Wipe up spills and leaks immediately. Keep indoor humidity below 50 percent. You can buy a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels. In warm, humid climates, a dehumidifier can help.

Check for leaks under sinks, around windows, and near the roof. If you notice water stains or a musty smell, report them to your landlord right away. Fixing small leaks early prevents mold from taking hold. Also, avoid blocking vents and allow air to circulate. If you have a crawl space or basement, keep it dry and well-ventilated.

Need help right now?

Call (313) 766-2970 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

Call Now (313) 766-2970

Frequently asked questions

Can I clean mold myself in my apartment?

For small patches, like on a bathroom tile, you can clean with soap and water. But if the mold covers more than a few square feet, or if it is inside walls, call the pros. Disturbing large areas can release spores and worsen the problem.

What should I do if my landlord ignores the mold?

Send a written notice to your landlord again, and keep a copy. Contact your local housing authority or health department. They can inspect and order the landlord to fix the issue. In some cases, you may be able to withhold rent or break your lease, but check local laws.

Will my renters insurance pay for mold damage?

It depends on your policy. Some policies cover mold if it results from a covered water loss, like a burst pipe. Others exclude mold entirely. Read your policy and talk to your insurer. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Call Now (313) 766-2970