Who is responsible for mould and condensation in a rental property?
Tenants should try to keep their house in a condition that doesn’t encourage mould and damp. This includes keeping the house well aired, and removing mould as soon as it appears.
When you meet your tenant at the property to move them in a full condition report should be carried out together. On that condition report you should note down any signs of mould or damp in the property. This is your starting point.
From that date on it is the tenant’s responsibility to keep the property clean and tidy which includes things like wiping condensation off windows when it first appears to prevent mould build up. A tenant should also air the property by opening windows and doors whenever they can.
On the harrisonsenergy.co.nz website it states that “The average home produces 30 litres of moisture a day” This can be from cooking, bathing or drying clothes, if windows are not opened on a regular basis this moisture has no-where to go and then settles on walls and ceilings as moisture, when you warm the house with heating it creates and ideal breeding ground for mould.
What can a Landlord do to prevent mould and damp
Have the property insulated, this helps by creating a layer between the warm air inside and cold air outside so moisture cannot form on a cold surface
Provide heating such as a log burner or heat pump. Avoid gas heaters which expel moisture
If a tumble dryer has been provided for the tenant ensure it is vented to outside the property
Ensure bathrooms and kitchens have working extractor fans to remove moisture
Ensure all windows have security stays so the tenants can leave windows open security when they are not home
What can your tenant do to prevent mould and damp
Open windows and doors regularly
keep lids on pots when cooking
Wipe condensation off walls ceilings and windows
Hang washing outside, and make sure everything’s dry before putting it away
Leave wardrobes slightly open and pull beds and furniture away from walls so they can breathe
Keep the shower curtain hanging inside the shower or bath so water doesn’t drip on the floor, and wash the curtain every few weeks
Mop up any water on the bathroom floor after baths and showers
Use an electric heater rather than a gas heater
keep house plants to a minimum
Remove mould as soon as it appears by cleaning it with a soft cloth and detergent like sugar soap or a mild bleach solution – wear gloves
Do not sleep on mattresses which are directly on the floor, this will cause damp on the floor and can possibly stain the carpet. Ensure you use a bed base. If this is not possible lift the mattress onto its side every morning to air it
Written by Hollie Joss 15/6/16
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