What Is the Landlord's Responsibility for Mold?

Landlords generally must provide a habitable home, meaning safe, clean, and without conditions that threaten health. Mold from water leaks, poor ventilation, or structural issues often falls under that duty. If the mold stems from a plumbing leak, roof damage, or faulty HVAC, the landlord is typically responsible for fixing the source and cleaning up the mold.

Tenant-caused mold, like from unvented bathroom use or leaving wet clothes around, is usually your own responsibility. But the line can blur. The sensible approach is to check your lease and your state or local housing codes. If you live in Detroit, the city's rental ordinances may have specific requirements, so review those or contact the housing department.

• Notify your landlord in writing about the mold and any water leak.
• Take photos and keep copies of all communication.
• Give your landlord a reasonable time to fix the problem.
• Keep records of any health issues you or family members experience.
• Do not attempt to remove mold yourself if the area is large or if you have health concerns.

Mold can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. If you or anyone in your household feels unwell, see a doctor. For small patches of mold, you might clean them with soap and water, but if the area is larger than a few square feet, it is safer to have a mold professional assess it. They can identify the type and recommend safe removal.

Do not try to remove mold from drywall or insulation, as that often requires cutting out and replacing materials. If the mold is widespread, you may need to vacate temporarily. Your landlord may be required to provide alternative housing if the unit becomes uninhabitable, but that depends on local laws and your lease. Always prioritize your health.

If your landlord ignores your written notice, you have several options. You can contact local housing authorities or code enforcement to request an inspection. In some places, you may be able to withhold rent or repair and deduct the cost, but those actions have strict rules, so you must be careful. Check your local tenant laws or seek help from a tenant advocacy group.

Another path is to break your lease if the unit is truly uninhabitable, but again, that is a legal step with consequences. You might also consider mediation. The goal is to get the mold fixed, not to escalate unnecessarily. Keep all documentation, as it will be crucial if you need to take formal action.