Understanding mold and humidity responsibilities
Mold can result from a plumbing leak, roof or window failure, inadequate ventilation, flooding, condensation, or a heating problem. The cause matters because a landlord may need to repair the building, remove contaminated materials, dry the affected area, and prevent the problem from returning. A tenant may be responsible for reasonable day-to-day practices, such as using available ventilation and promptly reporting leaks, but a landlord cannot normally avoid maintenance duties simply by blaming ordinary household moisture.
Landlords should investigate a mold report without unreasonable delay, arrange qualified remediation where appropriate, and address the underlying source of moisture. Surface cleaning alone may not be enough if drywall, insulation, flooring, or ventilation systems are affected. Tenants can review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for related habitability concerns.
What landlords should do after a mold report
After receiving notice, a landlord should communicate with the tenant, inspect the affected areas with reasonable notice unless there is an emergency, and determine whether the unit or a neighbouring space is contributing to the problem. The landlord should document the inspection and provide a repair plan that identifies the work, expected timing, and any temporary safety measures.
- Record the reported locations, visible damage, odour, moisture readings, and related leaks or condensation.
- Repair plumbing, heating, ventilation, windows, roofs, walls, or other building components causing moisture.
- Protect occupants from unsafe areas and arrange suitable temporary measures when remediation makes part of the unit unusable.
- Use appropriate cleaning, drying, removal, and replacement methods rather than covering contaminated materials.
- Follow up after the work to confirm that humidity, odour, and visible growth have not returned.
Nunavut's Residential Tenancies Act sets the legal framework for residential rentals, including landlord and tenant duties concerning rental premises and repairs.[1] The facts of each dispute matter, including the severity of the mold, the cause, notice given, access to the unit, and whether repairs were completed properly.
What tenants should do when mold appears
Tell the landlord or property manager in writing as soon as possible. Describe where the mold or moisture is located, when it began, any leaks or odours, and whether anyone is experiencing symptoms. Ask for an inspection, repairs to the source, and a written schedule. Keep communication calm and factual, and do not make major alterations or use harsh chemicals that could damage the unit or hide the cause.
- Take dated photos or videos of visible mold, stains, condensation, damaged materials, and affected belongings.
- Send a written repair request and keep copies of messages, emails, letters, and delivery records.
- Record dates for each report, inspection, promised repair, entry, and follow-up communication.
- Continue reasonable ventilation and moisture-control steps when the unit's heating and ventilation systems are working.
- Seek help promptly if the landlord does not respond, the condition is worsening, or the unit may be unsafe.
Repairs, entry, and temporary relocation
Landlords generally need to balance urgent repairs with a tenant's privacy and reasonable enjoyment of the home. A landlord should give the notice required by Nunavut law before entering for a non-emergency inspection or repair, explain the purpose of entry, and limit access to what is reasonably necessary. In an emergency, entry may be permitted without ordinary advance notice.
If remediation requires the tenant to leave temporarily, ask in writing who will arrange or pay for alternative accommodation, storage, moving costs, or other expenses. Do not assume that leaving permanently or withholding rent is automatically permitted. Get advice before taking steps that could affect the tenancy, and review Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
For general allocation of maintenance duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. If you are searching for another home because the unit cannot be occupied, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
When a landlord does not fix the problem
Make a second written request if the landlord misses a promised deadline or performs incomplete work. Explain what remains unresolved and provide reasonable access for inspection and repairs. If the issue continues, contact Nunavut's residential tenancy authority for information about an application or complaint process. The Director of Residential Tenancies can explain available remedies, filing requirements, service rules, and hearing procedures.
Depending on the evidence and legal findings, a tenant may ask for an order requiring repairs, compensation for proven losses, a rent-related remedy, or another remedy available under the Act. A tenant should not stop paying rent, deduct remediation costs, or move out without advice unless the law clearly permits that action.
Evidence that can help
- Keep the lease, inspection records, repair requests, photographs, videos, receipts, and medical or professional records that are relevant.
- Document reasonable out-of-pocket costs, damaged belongings, temporary accommodation, cleaning, storage, and other claimed losses.
- Save inspection reports, contractor statements, humidity readings, and written explanations of the suspected cause.
- Respond to tribunal forms and hearing notices by the stated deadline and attend any scheduled hearing.
FAQ
- Is a landlord in Nunavut responsible for all mold?
- Not automatically, because responsibility depends on the cause, the lease, the condition of the unit, and each party's conduct. A landlord generally must address building defects and repair obligations, while a tenant must report problems and avoid unreasonable damage.
- Can I refuse entry for a mold inspection?
- You can ask for proper notice and a reasonable appointment, but refusing lawful access can delay repairs and may breach tenant obligations. In an emergency, different entry rules may apply.
- Can I stop paying rent until mold is removed?
- Do not withhold rent or deduct costs without confirming that Nunavut law and your circumstances permit it. Ask the residential tenancy authority or a qualified adviser about safer remedies.
- What if mold is affecting my health?
- Seek medical advice for symptoms and tell the landlord in writing about the concern. Request prompt action and preserve relevant evidence, while recognizing that a health professional must assess medical causation.
How-To
- Photograph the mold, moisture, damage, and affected belongings with dates and location details.
- Send the landlord a written request describing the problem, suspected source, health concerns, and repairs requested.
- Offer reasonable access for inspection and remediation while requesting lawful entry notice and a repair schedule.
- Track deadlines, visits, promises, incomplete work, expenses, and any return of mold or odour.
- Contact the Director of Residential Tenancies and ask how to file the appropriate application if the issue remains unresolved.
Help and Support / Resources
- Nunavut Residential Tenancies information and the Director of Residential Tenancies
- Application to the Director of Residential Tenancies, with current filing instructions and forms
- Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act
