Have you ever noticed mould creeping across the ceiling or walls of a rental property and wondered who is responsible for fixing it?
Mould is one of the most common issues faced in Perth rentals, and it affects both tenants and landlords in significant ways. Left untreated, it can damage the home’s structure and pose serious health risks for those living inside. Understanding how mould starts, what tenants can do to prevent it, and what landlords must do to address it is essential. At Pinnacle Roofing & Ceiling Services, we’re here to provide guidance and practical solutions.
Why Mould is a Serious Issue in Rentals
Health Risks for Tenants
Mould in a rental property isn’t just an unsightly problem; it can seriously affect the health of those living in the home. Common issues include sneezing, skin irritation, and breathing difficulties. For tenants with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems, mould exposure can make daily living uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Children and elderly residents are especially vulnerable, making it vital that mould is treated quickly and effectively.
Damage to the Property
Beyond its impact on health, mould can cause lasting damage to a rental home. It thrives in damp environments, slowly eating away at plasterboard, ceilings, timber supports, and even paintwork. Over time, these materials can weaken and require costly repairs. In many cases, visible mould growth is just the surface problem, while hidden damage spreads inside walls and ceilings. This structural impact reduces the value of the property and creates bigger problems for landlords if left unchecked.
Unpleasant Odours and Appearance
One of the first signs of mould is the musty smell it leaves behind. This odour quickly spreads through the property, making it uncomfortable for tenants and difficult to mask. Mould also leaves unsightly black or green stains that can ruin the look of walls and ceilings. For landlords, a mould-affected home can become much harder to rent, while tenants may feel unhappy living in a space that looks neglected and unsafe.
Why It Cannot Be Ignored
Mould will not disappear on its own. Without action, it will continue to spread, making the problem harder and more expensive to fix. Covering it up with paint or cleaning it lightly will only offer temporary relief, as the root cause remains untreated. Professional intervention is the only way to address both the visible mould and the underlying issue, such as leaks or poor ventilation. At Pinnacle Roofing & Ceiling Services, we offer professional mould removal services designed to restore safety, protect the property, and provide peace of mind to both tenants and landlords.
By treating mould as a serious issue from the start, rental properties remain safe, healthy, and comfortable places to live.
Tenant Responsibilities: Prevention and Reporting
Everyday Prevention Through Ventilation
Tenants play an important role in preventing mould growth by keeping the property well ventilated. Simple habits like opening windows, using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and ensuring airflow in bedrooms and living spaces can make a big difference. Moisture builds up quickly in closed environments, so allowing fresh air to circulate helps reduce condensation that mould thrives on. These steps are small but crucial in keeping ceilings and walls free from early mould growth.
Cleaning and Reducing Moisture
Tenants are also expected to keep their rental homes clean and dry. Regularly wiping down damp areas, drying clothes outside when possible, and not blocking air vents are easy measures that help minimise moisture. Bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens are particularly high-risk areas, so extra attention here can prevent mould from taking hold. By managing everyday moisture, tenants can significantly reduce the risk of visible mould developing.
Reporting Leaks or Mould Quickly
While prevention is important, some issues are outside a tenant’s control. Leaks from roofs, plumbing failures, or poor insulation are structural issues that need professional intervention. Tenants are responsible for reporting these problems as soon as they notice them, whether it’s a damp patch on the ceiling, a persistent musty smell, or visible mould growth. Prompt reporting allows landlords to act quickly, stopping small issues before they become major hazards.
Not Responsible for Structural Problems
It’s important to understand that tenants are not expected to fix structural issues that cause mould. Their role is to maintain good living habits and notify landlords of any concerns. Repairs, restorations, and addressing root causes such as leaks fall under the landlord’s duty. At Pinnacle Roofing & Ceiling Services, we provide effective mould treatment solutions that not only remove visible growth but also target the underlying causes. This ensures that tenants can live in a healthy environment while landlords meet their responsibilities.
When tenants take prevention seriously and report issues early, they help protect both their own health and the property itself. Working together with landlords creates safer, mould-free rental homes across Perth.
Landlord Responsibilities: Maintenance and Safety
Legal Obligations Under Tenancy Laws
In Western Australia, landlords are legally required to provide tenants with a safe and habitable property. This includes ensuring the home is free from hazards such as mould. Tenancy laws make it clear that if mould develops due to structural issues like roof leaks, poor drainage, or inadequate ventilation, it is the landlord’s duty to arrange repairs. Failing to meet these obligations can result in disputes with tenants and even legal action, highlighting the importance of timely maintenance.
Duty to Provide a Safe and Healthy Home
Landlords have a responsibility to ensure their property is safe for tenants to live in. Mould poses health risks ranging from minor allergic reactions to serious respiratory conditions. By taking mould seriously and arranging prompt repairs, landlords protect the wellbeing of their tenants while also fulfilling their duty of care. This proactive approach also helps build trust with tenants, showing that their safety is a priority.
Addressing Structural Problems Promptly
Many mould problems in rentals are linked to underlying structural issues. Roof leaks, poor ceiling insulation, or blocked gutters can all create moisture that encourages mould growth. Landlords are responsible for arranging inspections and repairs to address these causes. The faster these problems are fixed, the less damage mould can do to the property. Ignoring structural issues doesn’t just risk tenant health — it can also lead to costly long-term repairs for the property owner.
Why Professional Services Are Essential
While landlords may attempt quick fixes, these often fail to address the root causes of mould. Professional intervention ensures mould is removed safely and permanently. At Pinnacle Roofing & Ceiling Services, we are trusted mould remediation experts with the skills to restore ceilings and roofs while preventing future growth. By investing in expert services, landlords not only meet their legal and ethical obligations but also protect the long-term value of their property.
For landlords, taking responsibility for mould means more than fulfilling legal requirements, it ensures their property remains a safe, attractive, and profitable investment.
How Professional Repairs and Inspections Help
Accurate Identification of the Problem
One of the biggest challenges with mould is understanding the full extent of the problem. While surface mould is easy to spot, hidden growth inside ceilings or behind walls can often go unnoticed. Professional inspections provide clarity, identifying both visible mould and hidden damage. This ensures that the solution is targeted and effective, rather than just treating the symptoms.
Benefits of Professional Removal
Attempting to remove mould with household cleaners may temporarily reduce the appearance, but it does not tackle the underlying cause. In many cases, DIY efforts spread mould spores further through the property. Professional services, on the other hand, use specialised techniques and protective equipment to remove mould safely. At Pinnacle Roofing & Ceiling Services, our team provides safe and thorough mould removal, ensuring that both tenants and landlords can feel confident the property is truly free from mould hazards.
Addressing Root Causes
Mould will always return if the source of moisture is not fixed. This is where professional ceiling and roof specialists add real value. We not only remove mould but also investigate where the moisture is coming from. Whether it’s a leaking roof, poor ventilation, or damaged ceiling insulation, identifying and repairing these problems prevents the mould from reappearing. This long-term approach saves both time and money for landlords and provides a healthier living space for tenants.
Transparency Through Inspections
Professional inspections also provide clear documentation of the problem and the solution. For tenants, this offers reassurance that the property is safe to live in. For landlords, inspection reports demonstrate that the property is being maintained responsibly, helping to avoid disputes and meet legal obligations. This transparency builds trust between both parties and ensures everyone is satisfied with the outcome.
When mould is dealt with professionally, rental properties remain safe, attractive, and structurally sound. The right inspections and repairs protect tenants’ health, preserve the value of the property, and prevent ongoing disputes.
Is Mould Putting Your Property at Risk?
Have you noticed mould starting to form in your rental property, or received reports from tenants about damp patches or musty smells?
Mould is more than just a nuisance, it’s a risk to both health and property value. By acting quickly, tenants and landlords can prevent small issues from turning into major problems. At Pinnacle Roofing & Ceiling Services, we’re committed to helping Perth homes stay safe and mould-free through expert inspections, repairs, and treatments. If you’re ready to protect your property and those living in it, contact our team today for professional support.
