Living with mould or persistent dampness can be stressful and affect your health and right to a safe rental home. If you rent in Newfoundland and Labrador, you have practical options as a tenant: document the problem, ask your landlord to fix it, and escalate to the provincial Residential Tenancies Board or public health if repairs aren’t made. This article explains clear, step-by-step actions tenants can take, what evidence to collect, typical timelines, and when to use formal forms or file an application. It also covers simple prevention tips you can try while the landlord arranges repairs. The goal is to help renters understand their rights and the processes available so they can get safe, habitable housing without unnecessary conflict.
What makes mould or dampness a habitability issue?
Mould and chronic dampness can interfere with basic standards of habitability when they create health risks or make living spaces unusable. Common causes include leaks, poor ventilation, condensation, or building envelope problems. As a tenant, your concern is whether the condition affects safety, health, or the usability of essential living areas (bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms).
Tenant responsibilities and landlord obligations
Landlords must keep rental units in a good state of repair and meet health and safety requirements. Tenants are expected to take reasonable steps to reduce moisture (for example, using ventilation fans and avoiding drying clothes indoors). If mould results from structural issues or missing repairs, it is typically the landlord’s responsibility to fix the root cause.
For more on shared responsibilities and what to expect after signing a lease, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Practical immediate steps to take (document and notify)
- Take dated photos and short videos of affected areas and keep a written log of visible growth, musty smells, and health symptoms.
- Tell your landlord in writing (email or letter) describing the problem, attaching photos, and requesting repairs; keep a copy for your records.
- Give the landlord a reasonable deadline to respond and repair (state a clear timeframe in your written notice).
- If the landlord arranges access for inspection, be present if possible and request any inspection notes or repair reports.
If the landlord does not respond or work is ineffective, you can escalate through provincial channels, including filing an application with the Residential Tenancies Board.[1]
When to involve the Residential Tenancies Board and official steps
If informal requests don’t resolve the issue, tenants in Newfoundland and Labrador can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Board to seek orders for repairs, rent abatement, or other remedies. Typical steps include completing the Board’s application form, submitting evidence (photos, dated correspondence, medical notes if relevant), and attending a hearing if one is scheduled.
Common official form: Application to the Residential Tenancies Board — used when a tenant asks the Board to resolve a dispute about repairs or habitability; include your written notices and photo evidence when you file.[1]
Health guidance and when to contact public health
If mould is causing or worsening health problems (allergic reactions, asthma, persistent cough), contact your provincial public health authority for advice and possible inspection. Document any symptoms and medical visits to strengthen your case.
For provincial health guidance on household mould and mitigation, consult the Newfoundland and Labrador health information resources.[3]
Prevention tips while repairs are arranged
- Use bathroom and kitchen fans during and after showers or cooking to reduce humidity.
- Open windows when weather allows to improve air circulation and reduce condensation.
- Move belongings away from damp walls and avoid blocking vents or heaters.
Finding a new rental or checking listings
If you decide a move is necessary, use reliable listing services and check units for obvious moisture problems before signing. For broader rental searches you can Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to compare options and view photos and property details.
FAQ
- What evidence should I bring to the Residential Tenancies Board?
- Bring dated photos and videos, copies of written notices to the landlord, a repair log, any medical notes, and receipts for related expenses.
- Can I withhold rent if the unit has dangerous mould?
- Withholding rent is risky and may not be allowed; file with the Residential Tenancies Board for remedies instead and seek specific legal or board guidance.
- How long does the Board process usually take?
- Timelines vary; the Board will schedule a hearing and notify parties. Keep your own deadlines and records and attend all scheduled hearings.
How-To
- Document the issue: take photos, log dates and symptoms, and save all correspondence with the landlord.
- Send a clear written request to the landlord describing the problem, attaching evidence, and asking for repairs by a specific date.
- Allow reasonable access for inspection and repairs, and request contractor reports or receipts once work is done.
- If unresolved, complete and file the Application to the Residential Tenancies Board with supporting evidence and the requested remedy.[1]
- If health is affected, contact provincial public health and your healthcare provider promptly and include medical documentation with your case.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Document mould and dampness carefully with dated photos and written requests.
- Ask the landlord to repair first, then file with the Residential Tenancies Board if necessary.
- Seek public health advice if you have health concerns linked to mould exposure.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Health and Community Services
- [2] Residential Tenancies Board, Newfoundland and Labrador
