How to Tell if Your Landlord Painted Over Mold

When mold is ignored, it spreads, weakens walls, and creates health risks. Some landlords try to cover it up instead of fixing the problem. A fresh coat of paint might look clean, but it doesn’t stop mold from growing underneath.

What looks like a quick fix only makes the problem worse. In this guide, you’ll learn how to spot the signs of painted-over mold, why it’s dangerous, and what steps to take next.

Why Painting Over Mold Is a Serious Issue

Painting over mold doesn’t make it go away. It hides the problem, but only for a while. Mold spores stay alive, feeding on moisture trapped beneath the paint. Over time, they break through, staining walls and spreading further.

Moisture is the real issue. Water leaks, high humidity, and poor ventilation create the perfect environment for mold growth. If the source of the mold isn’t fixed, no amount of paint will stop it. Even mold-resistant paint and primers, like Kilz or Zinsser, won’t work if mold is already growing.

Left untreated, it weakens drywall and wood, leading to chipping, peeling paint, and structural damage. Worse, it releases toxins into the air. Black toxic mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and long-term health risks. 

Signs Your Landlord May Have Painted Over Mold 

If a landlord painted over mold, the signs will show. Look closely. Here’s what to watch for.

Bubbling, Cracking, or Peeling Paint

Fresh paint should go on smoothly. If it starts bubbling, cracking, or peeling, it means moisture is trapped beneath the surface. 

Mold weakens drywall and holds water, preventing paint from sticking properly. When it grows underneath, it pushes the paint outward. Over time, the paint breaks apart, exposing the problem below.

Discoloration or Stains Seeping Through

Mold stains don’t stay hidden. Even under a thick coat of paint, dark spots, yellow stains, or greenish patches may start showing through. 

These stains indicate mold is still active, feeding on moisture behind the wall. If the marks return after repainting, it’s not an old stain─it’s a mold problem.

A Musty or Damp Smell

Paint can cover stains, but it can’t mask the odor. Mold has a distinct, musty smell that lingers in damp spaces. The issue isn’t fixed if a room still smells moldy after a new paint job. 

The stronger the odor, the more active the growth. High humidity or excess moisture makes it worse.

Soft or Warped Walls

Press gently on suspicious areas. If the wall feels soft, spongy, or warped, mold and moisture have compromised the drywall. A proper paint job won’t fix structural damage, but some landlords paint over it to make it look clean.

Paint That Looks Too Thick or Uneven

A wall with heavy, uneven layers of paint can be a red flag. Some landlords apply multiple coats of mold-resistant primers like Kilz or Zinsser, hoping to seal the problem. 

If the paint looks patchy, overly thick, or strangely textured, it might cover something more serious.

Mold Growth in Other Areas

If there’s visible mold in one part of the home, chances are it exists everywhere. Check corners, baseboards, ceilings, and behind furniture. Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements are high-risk areas. 

If a landlord ignored it in one place, they may have painted over it in another. 

Recent Water Damage or Leaks 

Water leaks create the perfect conditions for mold. If the rental has a history of water damage but no signs of professional mold remediation, there’s a chance it was painted over. Look for past plumbing issues, roof leaks, or signs of flooding. If repairs were rushed, mold may still be growing behind the walls.

Preventing Mold Problems in Your Home

If your landlord has painted over mold in your unit, there is a chance that it could spread to new locations very quickly. Here are some steps you can take to protect the parts of your living space that aren’t yet affected. 

Fix Leaks and Control Moisture

Water damage fuels mold growth. Check for leaks under sinks, around windows, and near appliances. A slow drip today can turn into black mold tomorrow. If you notice peeling paint or soft drywall, the problem may already be inside the walls. Fixing leaks early stops mold before it spreads.

Use a Dehumidifier

High humidity creates the perfect mold environment. A dehumidifier keeps moisture levels low, making it harder for spores to grow. Basements, laundry rooms, and bathrooms benefit the most. Aim for humidity below 50% to prevent it from taking hold.

Improve Air Circulation

Stale air traps moisture. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Open windows when possible. If the air feels damp, the spores are already in play. Moving air dries out affected areas before they become full-blown infestations.

Choose Mold-Resistant Materials

Some paints and mildew-resistant primers, like Zinsser and Kilz, claim to prevent mold. While they help, they don’t fix an existing mold problem. Use high-quality anti-mold and semi-gloss or oil-based paints in high-humidity areas if repainting. Drywall alternatives like mold-resistant gypsum boards add an extra layer of protection.

Clean Regularly with Mold-Fighting Solutions

Surface mold on hard, non-porous areas can sometimes be cleaned with mold-specific cleaners. Alternatively, mild soap and water can be used for routine cleaning. However, these methods are insufficient for colonies that have spread into your home materials. Mold removal may require professional remediation for porous materials like drywall. Regular cleaning with antifungal sprays keeps mildew from settling in.

Know Your Tenant Rights in California

In California, homeowners must provide safe, habitable housing. If mold threatens health or damages property, they must address it. Laws protect tenants from unsafe living conditions. If ignored, tenants may have the right to demand remediation or take legal action.

Contact Our Team of Mold Attorneys for a Review Today

Mold can be a nuisance. It’s a health risk and, in many cases, a legal issue. You have rights if your landlord ignores the problem or tries to cover it with paint. Collect evidence and contact us for a consultation to learn if we can help.

Know what to look for. Signs like peeling paint, musty smells, and water damage often mean hidden mold. If you suspect mold in your rental, document everything. Take photos. Keep records of repair requests. If possible, get a mold inspection. 

Contact our team today for a free consultation and get the help you deserve.