Is Your Landlord Ignoring Your Mold Concerns?

Air Matters LLC has received a large number of calls in recent months from tenants who are concerned about mold testing and indoor air quality. These tenants have occupied a variety of properties from large apartment complexes or commercial office buildings to privately owned townhouses or duplexes. However, they have all shared one concern: “How can I get my landlord to take my complaint seriously and address this mold issue?”

In most cases, property owners or management are quick to deal with a valid mold situation. It minimizes property damage, keeps tenants healthy and happy, and is simply the right thing to do. Taking care of mold promptly also minimizes liability -- Across the country, renters have been awarded millions of dollars in lawsuits that contend significant health problems associated with exposure to mold.

But what should tenants do if they are having trouble getting a commitment to complete repairs and do any necessary remediation? Currently, there is no Federal law that sets permissible exposure limits or tolerance standards related to mold. Several states (including CA, TX, NJ, and MD) have passed some laws designed to establish guidelines for safe levels of mold in the air.

In North Carolina, mold is often addressed through the state’s Landlord and Tenant law – Chapter 42, which imposes minimum generic maintenance obligations for rental properties. This includes the obligation to maintain "in safe and good working order" many common sources of water and moisture intrusion that support fungal growth, such as plumbing and HVAC systems.

If you are a tenant with a suspected mold issue, notify your landlord in writing immediately. Include the date(s) you first noticed any conditions that might be associated with the problem, such as leaks or musty smells and a description of the progression of the problem. Take photographs to document the conditions, if possible. Include any supporting documentation, such as proof of medical appointments to address health symptoms you feel could be related to mold exposure. Ask when you can expect the problem to be addressed and follow-up.

If you are still unable to make any progress with your landlord, you may wish to consult with a mold professional, who can provide you with scientific data and environmental testing results to confirm, quantify and document your fungal exposure.


Air Matters LLC has performed mold testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee D. Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelors and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. You may contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221 or info@AirMattersMoldTesting.com.