If you’re renting or managing a property in New South Wales, you already know how big of a headache mould can be.
Left untreated, mould can become a serious health risk for tenants—and a costly nightmare for landlords. The thing is, mould doesn’t just go away. It spreads fast. That’s why it’s critical for both parties to understand their responsibilities and act early.
The Legal Bottom Line for Landlords in NSW
Under NSW Residential Tenancy Law, landlords are legally required to provide a home that’s safe, clean, and suitable for people to live in. That includes tackling any structural issues that could lead to mould growth.
The legislation is clear:
“The landlord must provide the premises in a reasonable state of cleanliness and fit for habitation.” – [S52(1) Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW)]
“They must also maintain the premises in a reasonable state of repair.” – [S63 RTA]
That means if mould shows up and it’s caused by something like poor drainage, leaks, or ventilation issues, the landlord is on the hook for repairs and mould treatment.
Tenants have every right to notify the landlord as soon as mould appears—and landlords should act quickly. If the place becomes uninhabitable, the tenant can actually terminate the lease immediately. Yes, it’s that serious.
You can read more about these rights and responsibilities in this helpful legal breakdown from Property Investment Lawyer.
Who’s Responsible for Mould?
This is where it gets a little nuanced.
Responsibility depends on the cause of the mould:
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If the mould is due to a structural issue or poor drainage (e.g., water pooling under the house or faulty waterproofing), it’s on the landlord to fix it.
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If the tenant contributes to the mould problem (e.g., not using bathroom fans or failing to ventilate the space), the tenant may be liable.
Common Structural Fixes for Mould Issues:
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Changing the slope of the land around the home
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Installing dish drains or ag pipes to divert water
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Waterproofing external walls
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Improving subfloor ventilation
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Addressing roof leaks or plumbing issues quickly
If you’re a landlord and your property is experiencing recurring mould, it’s worth engaging a professional for proper Sydney mould protection, including assessment, source detection, and complete mould repair.
For further government guidance on dealing with mould in rental properties, check out the official NSW Government mould guide for tenants and landlords.
Where to Go When There’s a Dispute?
When landlords and tenants can’t agree on who’s responsible, the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) steps in. But ideally, things don’t have to get that far.
Tenants should report issues quickly. Landlords should take mould services seriously and act fast. Everyone stays healthy—and out of the tribunal.
Worried About Mould? Let’s Get It Sorted.
Whether you’re a landlord needing expert help or a tenant concerned about indoor air quality, Rebilt can help. We handle the repairs and the root cause—providing reliable, long-term mould solutions across Sydney.
Book a free consultation today and find out how Rebilt can support you with expert mould protection, mould repair, and end-to-end mould services in Sydney.
