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Understanding Mold Growth
The best way to address mold growth is to prevent it: Keep surfaces dry by wiping them down after showering or cooking, and boost airflow with exhaust fans or open windows. Maintain a healthy indoor environment by using dehumidifiers or air conditioners to keep humidity below 50%. Clean regularly with natural mold-fighting solutions and insulate cold surfaces to prevent condensation. Let sunlight in whenever possible, as mold thrives in dark, damp spaces.
- Mold naturally forms when moisture, water, or humidity meet materials like:
- Wood
- Carpet
- Ceiling tiles
- Floor surfaces
- If mold shows up on walls, ceilings, or floors:
- Identify the water source (plumbing leaks, roof damage, groundwater intrusion)
- Notify the property owner or landlord immediately
What’s NOT a Mold Problem?
Not all discoloration or buildup is considered a mold issue. The following are housekeeping concerns and do not qualify for a DOEE mold complaint:
- Routine cleaning tasks such as:
- Dusting
- Mopping
- Wiping or scrubbing surfaces
- Minor mold or mildew around windows or bathtubs:
- If the area can be cleaned with household cleaners or
- If the issue can be resolved by re-caulking the surface
These are considered normal maintenance and should be addressed through regular housekeeping, not through the DOEE Mold Program.
Tenants are responsible for correcting moisture problems that result from their own use or neglect, while property owners/landlords must repair building defects that cause mold.
When to Submit a DOEE Mold Complaint
Tenants must follow these steps first before filing a complaint:
- Notify the property owner/landlord in writing
a. Email, text, or letter — be sure to keep a copy
- Allow the property owner/landlord to inspect the property containing mold concerns:
a. If the property owner/landlord does not inspect within 7 days, or
b. Fails to repair moldy conditions within 30 days
You have the option to submit an online complaint to DOEE and include:
c. Evidence of the written notification (screenshot of email or text message, copy of letter, etc.)
How to Submit a Mold Complaint
- Use the DOEE Mold Complaint Submission Form
- Attach documentation showing you notified the property owner/landlord and photos of mold in your home
- For questions, call (202) 535-2600
Owner/Landlord Remediation Rules
- DOEE inspectors reference Section 305 of the Air Quality Amendment Act of 2014
- Property owners/landlords are required to:
- Inspect affected areas within 7 days of receiving written notice
- Remediate mold on building materials and certain wood products
Mold Size Matters: If there is ten square feet or more (approximately 3.16 ft x 3.16 ft or 2 ft x 5 ft) of indoor mold growth, mold assessment and remediation must be performed or supervised by a mold professional licensed by DOEE.
| Contamination Size | Action Required |
| More than 10 sq ft | Must hire a DOEE-licensed mold professional for remediation. (List of Licensed Mold Professionals) |
| Less than 10 sq ft | Remediation can be handled by non-licensed individual following DOEE guidelines (Mold Remediation Guidance Document) |
Helpful Resources
A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home (PDF): General information on cleaning and preventing mold.
Mold Cleanup in Your Home | US EPA: EPA Guidance on Mold Cleanup in Your Home
Guidance document final PDF.pdf: MOLD IN RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES: Steps to take when addressing mold in homes
§ 42–3502.22. Disclosure to tenants. | D.C. Law Library: DC Law Landlord Disclosure of Mold to Tenants
§ 8–241.04. Indoor mold remediation obligations at residential properties. | D.C. Law Library: DC Law Indoor mold remediation obligations at residential properties indoor
Mold and Health | US EPA: Mold and Health