Dealing with mould or persistent dampness can affect your health and your right to a safe rental home. If you rent in Newfoundland and Labrador, you should know what a landlord must fix, what you must do as a tenant, and the practical steps to get repairs done without delay. This guide explains how to document mould, how and when to give written notice, what official forms and provincial offices handle disputes, and when to seek outside help. It uses plain language so tenants can act quickly, preserve evidence, and protect both health and tenancy rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
What the law says in Newfoundland and Labrador
Under provincial tenancy rules such as the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords must provide and maintain a rental unit that is habitable and safe. Tenants have the right to live in a unit free from health hazards like uncontrolled mould and significant dampness, and landlords are generally responsible for repairs that relate to structure, plumbing, heating and moisture control. If a repair affects habitability or safety, tenants can require prompt action and, if necessary, file an application with the provincial tenancy tribunal for an order to repair, rent reduction or other remedies[1][2].
Practical steps tenants should take
Follow a clear process so you preserve evidence and meet any legal timelines.
- Take photos and videos of affected areas, note dates, and keep copies of any health complaints or doctor notes.
- Tell your landlord in writing about the mould or dampness, describing location, date discovered, and asking for repairs within a reasonable time.
- Allow reasonable access for repairs, while keeping records of all appointments and repair work done.
- If you have health concerns, contact public health or your health-care provider for advice and to record symptoms linked to indoor air quality.
If the landlord does not act after written notice, tenants can apply to the provincial tenancy tribunal for orders requiring repairs, rent abatement or other remedies. In urgent situations that risk health or safety, tenants should state the urgency in writing and request immediate repairs while also contacting public health if needed[3].
Tenant and landlord responsibilities (examples)
These examples reflect common responsibilities; check your lease and provincial rules for full details.
- Landlords: fix leaks, maintain windows and exterior walls, and ensure heating and ventilation work to prevent condensation and mould growth.
- Tenants: report issues promptly in writing, ventilate appropriately, and avoid behaviours that increase moisture (for example, prolonged drying of large loads of laundry inside unventilated rooms).
FAQ
- What should I include when I notify my landlord about mould?
- Give a written description that includes location, date discovered, photos or videos, any health symptoms, and a clear request for repairs or inspection.
- Can I withhold rent if mould is not fixed?
- Do not withhold rent without legal advice; in Newfoundland and Labrador you should follow the tribunal process for orders or rent reduction rather than withholding rent on your own.
- Who decides if the unit is uninhabitable?
- The tenancy tribunal or a public health inspector can make formal findings about habitability; keep records and follow filing procedures to request a hearing.
How-To
- Document the problem: take dated photos, collect medical notes if anyone is affected, and save receipts for expenses related to the issue.
- Send a written notice to your landlord describing the mould, the date, and the repairs you request; keep a copy and proof of delivery.
- If there is no adequate response, file an application with the provincial tenancy tribunal asking for an order to repair, rent abatement or other relief.
- If the issue is urgent and affects health, request immediate repairs and contact public health while you pursue tribunal options.
Help and Support / Resources
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador
- Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting
- Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
