Finding mold in your rental can be scary. More than an aesthetic issue it is about the diseases and the structural damage that comes with it. As a tenant, you should be aware of your rights and responsibilities that come with mold issues.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do upon discovering mold in your rental
1. Understand The Risks
Mold thrives in humid and damp atmospheres and can spread quickly if not dealt with promptly. Here are some common issues that mold can cause:
Allergies: Mold can cause or trigger allergies with symptoms like coughing, sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes.
Respiratory Issues: Mold spores if inhaled can enter the lungs and cause severe respiratory problems
Asthma Exacerbation: Mold can trigger asthma in people with a history
2. Identify The Source:
Mold is typically caused by:
Leaking pipes or roofs
Poor ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens
Flooding or water damage
High indoor humidity levels
To identify the mold source check for leaks in the bathroom or kitchen. Check for dark spots, musty smell, or any time of discoloration in the basement
3. Notify Your Landlord or Property Manager
Once you’ve identified mold, it's important to inform your landlord or property manager immediately. Provide details such as:
The area in your rental that mold has affected
Photos or videos as evidence
Information about any leaks or water damage contributing to the issue
4. Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities
As a tenant, your rights and responsibilities regarding mold depend upon local laws and the terms of your lease agreement. Generally:
Landlord's Duty; most landlords are responsible for matters that concern structural issues, for instance, leaks or faulty ventilation.
Tenant’s Responsibility: You’re typically responsible for preventing mold through proper ventilation, cleaning, and reporting issues promptly.
Find out about your local tenant laws to know who would be liable for mold remediation in your situation.
5. Request Professional Remediation
It's important to request your landlord for a professional mold remediation service as prolonged mold exposure is dangerous. A mold removal professional that you can suggest to them is Ridaway. It is EPA-approved, state-licensed, and industry-certified, and also guarantees 100% mold removal.
6. Take Preventative Measures
While waiting for mold remediation, you can do these things:
Use a dehumidifier to reduce the indoor humidity.
Improve ventilation by opening windows or using fans.
Avoid cleaning the mold yourself, especially if it covers a large area or is black mold, as improper cleaning can spread spores and trigger allergies and asthma.
Try to make your rental as dry as possible as mold has no chance of growing without a wet atmosphere.
7. Keep Records of Communication and Actions
Maintain records of all communication with your landlord, including emails, photos, and repair requests. This documentation can be valuable if disputes arise or legal action becomes necessary.
