The short answer
Who Handles What
Your HOA typically maintains common areas, which include shared walls, roofs, hallways, and exterior surfaces. If mold stems from a leak in these areas, the HOA often covers the repair and cleanup. However, mold inside your unit, such as from a bathroom exhaust fan or a pipe behind your kitchen sink, usually falls on you.
The exact split is written in your HOA's covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). These documents define what counts as a common area and what counts as your unit. Read them carefully, because some HOAs also have rules about how quickly you must report water issues or who handles drywall repair after a leak.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Mold from Common Areas
If mold appears on a wall that adjoins a neighbor's unit or near a shared roof, the HOA likely has responsibility. Water intrusion from a leaking roof or a faulty exterior seal is a common-area issue. The HOA should arrange for the source to be fixed and for the affected materials to be dried and replaced.
Act quickly to document the issue with photos and written notice to the HOA board. Keep records of all communication, including dates and responses. If the HOA delays, the mold can spread, so you may need to involve local water damage pros to assess the situation and contain the growth while you sort out responsibility.
Mold Inside Your Unit
Mold that comes from your own plumbing, appliances, or poor ventilation is your responsibility. You would arrange for the leak to be stopped, the wet materials removed, and the area dried. In many cases, the pros can handle the cleanup and any drywall or flooring repair that is needed.
If the mold is small, you might clean it yourself, but larger areas or mold behind walls need professional help. Your home insurance may cover mold damage if the cause is sudden and accidental, like a burst pipe. Review your policy and talk to your insurer about what is included.
Check your policy for specific mold limits and exclusions.
Steps to Take
First, identify the moisture source and stop it if you can. Turn off the water if a pipe is leaking, and ventilate the area. Then, notify your HOA in writing if the issue might involve common areas. Include photos and a description of the mold and any water stains.
Next, review your CC&Rs and your insurance policy to understand your obligations. If the HOA is responsible, give them a reasonable time to respond. If not, you can hire local water damage pros to dry the area and remove moldy materials. Keep all receipts and records for insurance or HOA reimbursement.
If you live in Mesa, keep your HOA contact information and your policy documents handy.
- Document the mold with photos and notes
- Notify the HOA in writing if common areas are involved
- Review your CC&Rs and insurance policy
- Stop the water source if you can do so safely
- Contact the pros for a thorough cleanup
- Keep all communication and receipts
When to Get Help
If mold covers more than a small patch, or if it is in your HVAC system, behind walls, or near insulation, bring in professionals. They have the equipment to dry hidden spaces and the training to handle mold safely. They can also identify the moisture source and help prevent recurrence.
For water damage that leads to mold, you might need several services. A water damage inspection can find hidden moisture, and drywall repair or flooring removal may be necessary if materials are too damaged to save. Local pros in Mesa can handle these tasks, but you should choose based on your specific situation.
See a doctor if you feel unwell from mold exposure.
- Large mold patches, over about 10 square feet
- Mold in air ducts or behind drywall
- Recurring mold after cleaning
- Water damage from sewage or flooding
- Mold in a rental unit, where the landlord or HOA may be responsible
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Does the HOA pay for mold cleanup in my unit?
Usually not, unless the mold comes from a common area issue like a roof leak or shared wall. Your CC&Rs will state the exact responsibilities. Check your policy to see if mold damage is covered, as it often depends on the cause and your coverage.
What if the HOA ignores the mold problem?
Document all communication and send a formal written request. You may need to take action yourself to protect your health, such as hiring pros to dry the area. Then, you can pursue reimbursement through your HOA's process or your insurance. Check your policy for guidance.
Can I be fined for mold in my unit?
Some HOAs have rules about property maintenance and may fine you if you fail to address mold or water damage promptly. Review your CC&Rs for maintenance requirements. Acting quickly to fix leaks and dry wet areas can help you avoid fines and further damage.