Who is responsible for eliminating pests or mold in my apartment?

In most states, the landlord is responsible for keeping the unit free of pests such as cockroaches, bedbugs, and mice. Mold caused by structural issues like leaks, poor ventilation, or moisture is also generally the landlord's responsibility under habitability laws.

What should I do first if I discover pests or mold in my apartment?

Notify your landlord in writing immediately, describing the problem in detail, and document everything with dated photos and videos. If the problem is affecting your health, also keep medical evidence such as doctor visit records or a log of your symptoms.

What can I do if my landlord does not fix the pest or mold problem?

You can report the situation to your city's housing inspection office and consult a free legal aid service. In some states, you have the right to repair the problem and deduct the cost from your rent, and in serious cases, you may even be able to terminate your lease without penalty.

What to do if you have pests or mold in your apartment

Pests and mold: a habitability problem

Pests (cockroaches, bedbugs, mice) and mold are more than a nuisance: they represent a health risk and are usually the landlord's responsibility under habitability laws.

The landlord is usually responsible

In most states, the landlord must deliver and maintain a home free of pests and infestations. Mold caused by structural problems (leaks, poor ventilation, humidity) is also usually their responsibility.

Steps to follow

1. Notify the landlord in writing immediately, describing the problem in detail

2. Document everything: take dated photos and videos of the mold or pests

3. Keep medical evidence if the problem affects your health (doctor visits, symptoms)

4. Give a reasonable deadline for the landlord to act (according to your state's laws)

Health dangers of mold

Respiratory problems and allergies

Irritation of eyes, skin and throat

Worsening of asthma

Especially dangerous for children, the elderly and people with respiratory conditions

If the landlord does not act

Report to your city's housing inspection office

In some states you can use the repair-and-deduct remedy from the rent

Consult a free legal aid service

In serious cases, you may have the right to terminate the lease without penalty

What you can do in the meantime

Keep the apartment ventilated and dry to prevent mold

Do not leave exposed food that attracts pests

Seal small cracks and openings

Do not ignore the first signs: infestations grow fast

Remember to document every communication with the landlord — it will be your best defense if the problem reaches legal proceedings.

What to do if you have pests or mold in your apartment

Pests and mold: a habitability problem

The landlord is usually responsible

Steps to follow

Health dangers of mold

If the landlord does not act

What you can do in the meantime

Frequently Asked Questions

Related articles

What are my rights as a tenant in California?

What to do if your landlord will not make repairs in Florida

Tenant rights in New York: complete guide 2025