Mold problems in private rental

I understand your concerns about having mold in your unit. However, in most cases the mold in harmless. Only a small percentage (I Believe less than 1% is toxic) So, with that said, requiring your landlord to use professional mold abatement is probably not practical unless the mold is toxic. While the toxic mold is black, that doesn’t mean that all black mold is toxic. In comparison, that would be like saying all black cars are fords. When in fact, the overall majority of black cars would come from a wide array of car manufacturers.

I mention the toxic mold issue in order to shed some light on the problem. Personally I’ve had a mold abatement company quote mold removal on a bath tub that had leaked in my tenants apartment. The company came in with a clean up cost of $22,000. My insurance company would not cover it either. So, when it comes to professional mold removal– it really only makes sense if the mold is the toxic stachybotrys strain, which it probably isn’t. And even then, it may not be necessary.

Mold clean-up can be done by the landlord. No law requires the landlord to hire an expensive mold abatement company. Don’t believe me? Check with the Environmental Protection Agency. Government can not require a landlord to use a mold abatement company.

The health risk associated with mold is usually tied to allergies. Landlords can’t be held liable for tenants allergies as that is a physical condition not a property condition– even if the property seems to increase those allergies.

If you feel like you can’t work out this mold problem with your landlord, you can file a complaint with the Rental Protection Agency, that would allow you some legal help in finding a fair solution.

Bottom line, when it comes to mold, there really shouldn’t be any real reason to stay in a hotel unless ordered by your doctor. It can be cleaned up and resolved.

Dear elizabeth,
The landlord whom replied tio your issue is partially correct. All mold is not toxic and can be many different colors. Your landlord is required to keep home in a habitable state especially when it is effecting your health. Compile all requests for repairs and relocation receipts, medical bills etc. become familiar with your states landlord tenant bilaws and contact a air quality hygenist and personal injury attorney most will not reQuire payment unless you win case. Also nolo.com has specific laws on landlord responsiblity.