Questions about Black Mold?
The air conditioner unit in our apartment leaks from time to time. In the master bedroom closet, we've had to have the carpet replaced several times over the last few summers. Now there are black spots on the wall. Who is responsible for testing for black mold? I know that it is very expensive, and I think the apartment owners should have to test. What can I do to get them to do this? I'm very concerned, as my Father lives in the apartment, and he has COPD, and black mold could be deadly for him. Serious answers only, please. this is not a joking matter.
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You need to find out from town hall how your local code is written.
They will not only inform you, but may even send a public health official out for you.
Since the laws vary from town to town, they need to start the ball rolling.
As for who is responsible, that also varies. In most places, if the AC unit is provided by the landlord then they are responsible. If it is yours then you are responsible.
Good luck.
Most of the prior posters are correct that it is the owners responsibility except for one possible item. If the apartment owner provides the AC in question or had to approve it, they are responsible for maintenance. If it is a unit that the tenant provides and is not subject to landlord approval, then then tenant may be held responsible for any damages caused by the unit
The apartment owner needs to remedy this problem.
Black mold is only a problem if you are allergic to it. All dwellings unless they are water tight have it.
Mold spores are very tiny and difficult to see with the naked eye. Nearly every surface in a building has them even the pages of books.
But the mold can only proliferate in abundance under the right conditions. A lack of water and humidity keeps them in check. A abundance of water and the right humid conditions can allow them grow in abundance.
My point with the above is there is no way to totally rid a dwelling of mold. It is impossible.
Go appear on the knowledge approximately the estate, is it in a flood zone? Black mildew is with ease wiped clean with bleach water however you have got to understand what brought about it. Maybe have an informed within the field of creation appear at it and deliver you a few recommendation.
The apartment community is responsible for testing and for remediation. Notify them in writing, maintain a copy. If they will, get them to write something to acknowledge that you turn in the notification.
Documentation is key. And if they know that you are keeping documentation, they are more likely to act swiftly.
if it's the apartment's a/c unit, they are responsible for any testing and cleanup.
best bet call your local health department and ask for an inspection