What an AHS Mould Order Means
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An Alberta Health Services (AHS) mould order on a rental tells you to fix the mould, and how it must be done. It usually requires a qualified mould remediation company or consultant, plus written reports. Read the order carefully: it sets your deadlines and lists exactly what you must provide.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Your order’s wording is what counts.
Why you got an order
AHS inspectors issue orders on mouldy rental housing. Often a tenant reported the mould. AHS health inspectors don’t need the landlord’s permission to inspect, and they can order the problem fixed.
What orders usually require
Based on published AHS orders in Edmonton, expect some or all of these:
- A qualified mould remediation company or consultant to do or oversee the work.
- Written reports describing the work done.
- An asbestos plan in some cases, because older buildings may have asbestos in the materials that mould removal disturbs.
- Deadlines for each step.
Check your own order for the exact list and dates.
What “remediation” means to AHS
AHS’s fungal air testing protocol is clear:
- Treatment with only a biocide or disinfectant, such as bleach, is not acceptable remediation.
- Contaminated materials must be removed, and surfaces cleaned.
- Clearance testing follows, to confirm the work succeeded.
So painting over mould, or spraying it, won’t satisfy an order.
Choosing a remediator
Ask any company you’re considering:
- Have you done work under AHS orders before, and can you provide the reports the order requires?
- How will you contain the work area while tenants are home?
- How will you handle suspected asbestos? (Only licensed professionals can do asbestos abatement in Alberta.)
- Who does the clearance testing, and what will the results show?
- Will you find and explain the moisture source so the mould doesn’t come back?
Reports to keep
- The scope of work and dates
- Before-and-after photos
- Asbestos test results and abatement records, if any
- Clearance test results
- What was done to fix the moisture source
Timelines
Orders set deadlines. If you can’t meet one, contact AHS before it passes rather than after. Book the inspection early: asbestos testing, if needed, has to happen before mould removal starts.
How we help
We inspect, remediate, coordinate licensed asbestos abatement when needed, do clearance testing and provide written reports. See our page for landlords and property managers.