Can a Property Owner Be Liable for Mold Exposure?

 Posted on October 15, 2025 in Premises Liability

When mold spreads inside your home or building, it can make you very sick. If you start to have health problems because a property owner’s actions led to mold exposure, you might be able to file a premises liability claim. In California, property owners are required to keep their buildings safe and livable. They can be held responsible if they fail to do that. The experienced LA County, CA premises liability lawyers at Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C. will guide you through the claim process.

Understanding California’s Premises Liability Laws

Under California Civil Code § 1714, property owners have a duty to keep their property safe for others. This means they must fix or warn about dangerous conditions they know about or should have known about. If a property owner ignores a leaky pipe or a wet ceiling that leads to mold, they may be considered negligent.

Tenants also have special protection under California’s implied warranty of habitability. This rule, found in California Civil Code § 1941.1, requires landlords to keep rental homes safe and fit to live in. A home with large amounts of mold caused by poor maintenance does not meet this standard.

In addition, California Health and Safety Code § 17920.3 lists mold as a condition that can make a property "substandard." This means the property is legally unfit to live in until the issue is repaired. When landlords ignore these problems, they can face fines or be sued by tenants who get sick or lose property because of the unsafe conditions.

Common Causes of Mold Exposure Related to Property Maintenance

Mold often develops because a property owner failed to fix maintenance problems quickly. At first, you may only notice a musty smell or small spots on a wall. Over time, the spores can spread through the air and damage walls, furniture, and clothing. Some of the most common causes include:

• Plumbing leaks that go unfixed for weeks or months

• Poor ventilation in bathrooms, attics, or basements

• Flooding or roof leaks that are not properly repaired

• Air conditioning or HVAC systems that spread damp air

• Cracks or gaps in windows or foundations that let moisture in

How Do You Prove a Property Owner is Liable for Sickness Caused by Mold Exposure?

To prove a property owner is responsible for mold-related illness, you must show their negligence directly caused your health problems. This means proving they knew or should have known about the mold and failed to fix it in a reasonable time. You will need evidence like photos of visible mold, maintenance or inspection records, and medical reports linking your symptoms to exposure. Expert testimony from doctors or environmental specialists can also strengthen your case. Our attorneys can help gather proof, connect the timeline, and show how the unsafe conditions led to your sickness.

Contact a Los Angeles, CA Premises Liability Attorney

If you or someone in your family became sick because of mold exposure, Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C. can help. With more than 30 years of legal experience, our attorneys understand how California law affects injury victims. We take the time to explain your rights, your options, and what steps you can take to seek justice.

To learn more about how to build your claim and the damages you can recover, call 818-242-8201 today to schedule a free consultation with our experienced LA County, CA premises liability lawyers.