What Should a Tenant Do When There Is Mold in a Rental?

Take clear photos of the mold and any water stains, leaks, or damp spots that might be causing it. Write down the date you first noticed the mold and where it is located. This record helps you show the landlord the problem clearly and tracks how long it has been there.

Keep a copy of everything you send to the landlord, including emails or letters. If you speak on the phone, follow up with a written summary. This paper trail protects you if the issue is not resolved quickly and helps your insurance company understand the situation.

• Photograph the mold from different angles
• Note the size of the affected area
• Record any musty smells or health symptoms
• Save all messages and receipts related to the mold
• Check nearby areas for leaks or dampness

Mold can cause coughing, sneezing, and breathing problems, especially for children, older adults, and people with allergies or asthma. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. Keep the mold area dry and avoid touching it directly. Use gloves and a mask if you clean small spots.

Do not try to remove large mold patches yourself, as that can release spores into the air. Instead, limit your exposure by closing off the room and running a dehumidifier if you have one. If the mold covers more than a small area, ask a mold professional to assess it.

For small mold patches on hard surfaces, you can clean with soap and water. Do not use bleach, as it can irritate your lungs and does not fix the moisture problem. Dry the area thoroughly and fix any leaks or condensation sources to prevent the mold from returning.

If the mold has soaked into drywall, carpet, or insulation, those materials may need to be removed. That is a job for the pros, not a tenant. In Cincinnati, local water damage pros can handle mold cleanup and the underlying water damage, but they only work with the landlord's approval.