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How Do You File a Complaint Against a Landlord for Mold?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Start with Written Notice

The first step is to notify your landlord in writing about the mold. Describe where you see it, how long it has been there, and any health symptoms you or your household have noticed. Send the letter by email and keep a copy, or use a delivery method that gives you proof it was received.

Wait a reasonable time for your landlord to respond. What counts as reasonable depends on the severity of the mold. For a small patch, a week or two may be enough. For widespread growth or a leak that is actively dripping, the landlord should address it faster. If you hear nothing, move on to the next step.

Contact Your Local Housing Authority

Your city or county housing authority handles complaints about rental properties. Look up their website or call their office to ask how to file a complaint about mold. You will likely need to provide your address, the landlord's name, and a description of the problem.

Before you call, gather your evidence. Take photos of the mold, save copies of your written notice, and note any dates when you asked for help. The housing authority may schedule an inspection to see the conditions themselves. That inspection can push your landlord to make repairs.

Reach Out to the Health Department

If mold is making you or your family sick, contact your local health department. They can investigate whether the mold poses a health risk. Tell them about any coughing, sneezing, or breathing problems that improve when you are away from the home.

The health department may issue a notice to your landlord about unsafe living conditions. Their involvement adds official pressure. Keep their report or any written findings, as they may be useful if you need to take further action or involve a lawyer.

Document Everything Carefully

Good records make your complaint stronger. Write down every conversation with your landlord, including dates and what was said. Save all emails, texts, and letters. Keep a folder with photos of the mold, your written notices, and any reports from inspectors.

Also track how the mold affects your life. Note if you have to throw away belongings, if your sleep is disturbed, or if you have medical visits. These details show the severity of the situation. They also help if you later need to negotiate a rent reduction or take legal steps.

  • Take dated photos of all mold patches
  • Save copies of every written notice you send
  • Log phone calls with dates and summaries
  • Keep receipts for items you discard due to mold
  • Note any doctor visits linked to mold symptoms
  • Store all documents in one folder or binder

If your landlord still does not fix the mold, you may have legal options. Many states have laws that require landlords to keep rental units habitable, and mold can violate that duty. Check your state's tenant rights information or consult with a local tenant advocacy group.

You might also consider withholding rent or repairing the mold yourself and deducting the cost, but only if your state allows it. These steps can be risky, so read your lease and check local laws first. A tenant rights organization can explain what applies to your situation without you needing a lawyer right away.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I break my lease because of mold?

In many places, yes, if the mold makes the unit uninhabitable and your landlord fails to fix it after written notice. You may need to prove the condition is severe. Check your state's landlord-tenant laws or talk to a tenant advocacy group before moving out to avoid penalties.

What if my landlord blames me for the mold?

Mold usually comes from moisture problems like leaks or poor ventilation, not from tenant behavior. If you caused the moisture issue, such as leaving a window open in winter, the landlord may argue you are responsible. Still, file your complaint and let the inspector decide.

How long does the complaint process take?

It varies. A housing authority inspection might happen within a few weeks, but the full process can take longer if your landlord disputes the findings. The health department may act faster if there is an urgent health risk. Keep following up with both agencies.

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