In Queensland’s hot, wet, and humid climate, mould can spread quickly. Whether it shows up on a bathroom ceiling, hides under damp laundry, or appears around windows after heavy rain, it’s more than just a nuisance — it can be a serious health and property issue.

Why Mould Matters

Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces and spreads by releasing tiny airborne spores. When disturbed, these spores can trigger health problems such as asthma, sinus infections, skin irritation, and red or itchy eyes. Left untreated, mould can also damage walls, ceilings, furniture, and personal belongings.

Where Does It Come From?

Mould growth is usually linked to either excess moisture or poor airflow. Common causes include:

• High humidity during wet seasons
• Leaks in roofs, walls, or plumbing
• Poor ventilation in bathrooms, laundries, or kitchens
• Damp clothes or towels left indoors

Pinpointing the cause is key to working out who is responsible for resolving the problem.

Landlord Responsibilities

Property owners are responsible for providing a home that is safe, healthy, and well maintained. Mould will generally fall under the owner’s responsibility if it results from:

• Leaks in plumbing, roofing, or gutters
• Structural faults that trap moisture
• Poor design or inadequate ventilation in wet areas
• Ongoing issues hidden in roof cavities, under floors, or inside walls

In these situations, tenants should report the problem to us as your property manager straight away. We’ll liaise with the owner to arrange repairs and treatment.

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants also play a vital role in preventing mould. Mould may be considered the tenant’s responsibility if it is caused by:

• Not using exhaust fans or opening windows
• Allowing condensation to build up
• Leaving damp clothes or towels indoors
• Failing to report leaks or issues promptly

To help reduce mould, tenants should:

• Ventilate bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries during daily use
• Use dehumidifiers during wet weather
• Clean damp-prone areas regularly
• Notify us in writing as soon as mould is discovered so we can take the next steps

Working Together

If mould is reported, we encourage tenants to take photos and document the issue when contacting us. From there, we’ll assess the likely cause, liaise with the landlord, and coordinate any required maintenance.

With clear communication and timely action, we can all work together to keep homes safe, healthy, and mould-free.