Australia’s never-ending downpours in 2025 are not only dampening moods – they’re also turning properties, including rentals, into breeding grounds for mould as summer fast approaches.

New research from comparison website Finder reveals that 13% of Australians, approximately 1.2 million households, now have mould growing in their homes following months of persistent rain in 2025. And it’s safe to assume a good number of those affected are rental properties.

Mould isn’t just unsightly. This unwelcome guest can trigger health issues such as asthma and allergies, and structural damage to a property, including rotting wood and plaster, leaving property owners with eye-watering repair bills if ignored.

A form of fungi in the same family as yeast and mushrooms, mould spreads when airborne spores settle on damp surfaces. They then quickly take hold in walls, ceilings, insulation, carpets, mattresses, and tiles, especially in areas with poor ventilation.

For landlords, a mould-free property isn’t optional - it’s a legal requirement. In every state and territory, owners must provide tenants with a clean, safe environment that meets minimum standards, including freedom from mould.

Tenants also have skin in the game. Promptly reporting leaks, keeping air flowing, and drying out condensation can all help prevent a minor mould patch from becoming a significant health hazard – and a financial threat for the landlord.

Tenants should promptly report any signs of mould or mildew to their Raine & Horne Property Manager, along with any issues that could lead to mould growth, such as roof leaks, plumbing problems, or water seepages through walls or windows. Poorly sealed windows and inadequate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens can contribute to mould formation.

Once you’ve reported the issue, your Raine & Horne Property Manager will promptly organise qualified tradespeople, at the landlord’s expense, to inspect and resolve the problem.

It’s important to remember that some properties, due to their age, design, location, or ventilation, are naturally more prone to mould. In these situations, landlords are usually responsible for arranging and paying for professional remediation.

A major culprit for creating a breeding ground for mould is blocked roof gutters, particularly after storms or periods of heavy rain. Tenants should report cluttered gutters to their property manager immediately. If left unchecked, blocked gutters cause water damage, mould growth, and even costly structural repairs.

At the end of the day, landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental property and preventing mould from developing, although tenants are generally responsible for removing visible surface mould, as outlined in their lease agreement.

Moreover, to help make the job of removing mould easier for tenants, there are now numerous eco-friendly and user-friendly cleaning products. These products make tackling surface mould safer and simpler than ever.

To find out more about your obligations as a tenant, including mould prevention and the best cleaning product to move this blight from your property, reach out to your local Raine & Horne Property Manager.