Are Landlords Responsible for Mold Removal?

Mold isn’t just a nuisance. It can cause serious structural damage and major health problems, from chronic respiratory issues to allergic reactions. In rental properties, mold brings up one big question: Who is responsible for cleaning it up?

For renters, the answer can mean the difference between safe living conditions or mounting medical bills. For landlords, it can be the difference between routine maintenance and a costly lawsuit. Let’s break it all down.

The General Rule: Habitability Comes First

In most states, landlords are legally required to maintain a property in a condition that is safe and habitable. This is known as the "implied warranty of habitability". Mold, especially when it results from leaks or poor ventilation, can make a property uninhabitable.

When that happens, landlords are generally responsible for mold remediation. This means they must address the moisture source, perform mold removal, and ensure that the unit is safe to live in. If they fail to do so, tenants may have the right to withhold rent, move out, or even sue for damages depending on state law.

However, if the tenant’s actions cause the mold, like failing to use exhaust fans or not cleaning up spills, the landlord might not be responsible.

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - Tenant Rights

State-by-State Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at how five key states handle landlord responsibilities for mold.

Florida

Florida law doesn’t name mold specifically, but it does require landlords to maintain structural elements like the roof and plumbing. Leaks caused by neglected maintenance that result in mold growth? That’s on the landlord. Tenants can give a 7-day notice for repairs and, if not fixed, terminate the lease or withhold rent under specific conditions.

Source: Florida Statutes § 83.51 – Landlord’s Obligation to Maintain Premises

Utah

Utah is crystal clear: landlords must address mold once they’re notified. The law sets a 3-day window for fixing serious habitability issues, and even allows for 24-hour action if the mold poses an immediate danger. Tenants also have "repair and deduct" and lease-termination rights.

Source: Utah Fit Premises Act – § 57-22-5

Tennessee

Tennessee has no mold-specific law, but under the Uniform Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, landlords must maintain livable premises. Tenants can give 14 days' notice to fix mold problems. If unresolved, they may be able to move out or file a complaint in court.

Source: Tennessee Code § 66-28-304

Virginia

Virginia sets the gold standard. Landlords must disclose visible mold before move-in, fix mold within 5 business days, and even temporarily relocate tenants during remediation. If a landlord fails to act, tenants can use rent escrow or file for court-mandated repairs.

Source: Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 55.1-1220

Maryland

Maryland does not have mold-specific statutes, but recent laws (like the Tenant Safety Act) reinforce habitability standards. If mold makes a unit unsafe, tenants can pursue rent escrow, sue for damages, or withhold rent under certain conditions. Local codes in cities like Baltimore also require landlords to keep rentals mold-free.

Source: Md. Code, Real Property § 8-212

When Are Tenants Responsible for Mold?

While landlords are on the hook for issues caused by leaks, broken windows, or other building failures, tenants also play a role. Mold that forms due to poor housekeeping, like never using fans, leaving wet clothes around, or failing to report leaks, may shift responsibility to the tenant.

That’s why documentation matters. Landlords should inspect units regularly and respond quickly to complaints. Tenants should report mold as soon as they spot it, and both sides should keep written records.

What Landlords Should Do (and Do Fast)

If mold is reported, landlords should:

• Investigate immediately using professional tools like moisture meters or infrared cameras.
• Address the source of moisture, whether it’s a roof leak, plumbing issue, or poor ventilation.
• Hire certified mold remediation experts if needed.
• Provide alternative accommodations if the property is unsafe (especially in Virginia).
• Document the entire process to prove compliance.

Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Mold spreads fast. So do lawsuits. Tenants have legal rights, and landlords have legal responsibilities.

The best course of action? Proactive mold prevention and fast, safe mold remediation.

At ZeroMold, we work with landlords and tenants to resolve mold issues quickly and safely, without the harsh chemicals. Our eco-friendly biostatic fogging system targets mold at the source and treats both surfaces and air.

If you're dealing with mold in a rental property, don't wait. Call (888) 928-MOLD or visit ZeroMold.net to schedule a free inspection.