Who’s Responsible for Mould in Rental Properties?
Tenant’s rights and landlord’s responsibilities are affected when there’s the presence of mould in a rental property. Legislation provides a guide on how to handle this health (as well as wealth) risk.
According to the Residential Tenancy Law, the landlord is obliged to provide premises fit for habitation or fit to live in. Mould affects fitness for habitation, so the resident should notify the landlord/property manager to treat the mould.
The landlord/property manager should take take steps to treat the mould as soon as possible. The responsibility to treat the mould falls upon the landlord.
Some people are sensitive to moulds. Exposure to mould can pose a number of health risks, such as coughing, wheezing, and irritation in the throat, eyes, skin. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung disease and mould allergies could have severe reactions.
Black Mould releases spores that cause health or allergic reactions. This type of mould grows in moist places which lack ventilation.
