Mould in rental properties is one of the most contentious issues between tenants and landlords in Western Australia. Perth's climate makes mould a recurring challenge, and disputes about who is responsible for remediation are common. This guide explains the current legal framework, your rights as a tenant, and the practical steps you should take if mould appears in your rental home.
The Legal Framework in WA
Rental agreements in Western Australia are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 and its associated regulations. Under this legislation, landlords have a legal obligation to provide and maintain rental properties in a reasonable state of repair, including ensuring the property is fit for habitation. Mould that renders a property unhealthy or unfit for living may constitute a breach of this obligation.
Landlord Responsibilities
A landlord is typically responsible for mould resulting from:
- Leaking roofs, pipes, or plumbing fixtures
- Faulty or inadequate waterproofing in bathrooms and wet areas
- Structural defects that allow moisture intrusion (cracks, gaps, rising damp)
- Inadequate ventilation design (no exhaust fans, non-functional ventilation)
- Defective guttering and drainage that causes water pooling near foundations
- Pre-existing mould present before the tenancy commenced
If mould results from any of these issues, the landlord is expected to arrange and pay for professional remediation, including addressing the underlying cause. A professional mould inspection can provide documented evidence of the moisture source, which is valuable if a dispute arises.
Tenant Responsibilities
Tenants are expected to use exhaust fans when showering and cooking, ventilate the property by opening windows when practical, avoid drying clothes indoors without adequate ventilation, clean surface mould on tiles and glass as part of normal housekeeping, report maintenance issues promptly, and not cause damage that leads to moisture problems.
It is important to understand that tenants are not expected to remediate structural mould, wall-cavity mould, or mould resulting from building defects. Surface cleaning of day-to-day moisture buildup on tiles is reasonable; removing black mould from plasterboard walls is not.
Steps to Take If You Discover Mould
- Document everything -- Photograph all visible mould with date stamps. Note the location, approximate size, and any associated issues.
- Report in writing -- Notify your landlord or property manager in writing (email is ideal for creating a paper trail). Describe the mould and request an inspection and remediation.
- Allow reasonable time -- The landlord should acknowledge your report within a few days and arrange an inspection. Urgent issues should be treated as priority repairs.
- Follow up -- If the landlord does not respond or refuses to act, send a follow-up in writing referencing your original report.
- Seek mediation -- If the issue remains unresolved, contact the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) for advice.
What If the Landlord Blames You?
Landlords sometimes attribute mould to tenant lifestyle. While lifestyle factors can contribute, they rarely cause significant mould growth in a well-maintained building with adequate ventilation. If a landlord claims the mould is your fault, consider:
- Requesting a professional mould inspection that identifies the moisture source.
- Obtaining a mould test report that documents the species and concentration present.
- Checking the property's condition report from the start of tenancy for any pre-existing issues.
Health and Urgency
If mould in your rental is causing health symptoms, this strengthens the urgency of your claim. See your GP and request documentation linking your symptoms to your living environment. The health risks of condensation mould and other indoor mould types are well established in medical literature.
Getting Professional Help
Whether you are a tenant seeking evidence for a dispute or a landlord wanting to meet your obligations, we connect you with qualified mould removal and inspection specialists across Perth. Professional documentation, testing, and remediation protect both parties and resolve disputes faster. Request a free assessment through our service.