Prevention
Tenants can take a number of steps to prevent the accumulation or intrusion of excess amounts of moisture. Improve air circulation and reduce moisture levels in the air by opening windows and running fans, including bathroom and kitchen fans. Leave some space between furniture and walls to allow any moisture to escape. Promptly dry any minor water spills, and clean up small amounts of mold in the rental unit.
NOTIFICATION
Tenants should promptly notify landlords or property managers when they find evidence of moisture problems or mold growth that they are unable to correct themselves.
Contact the property manager if more than a couple cups of water are spilled, or if you are unsure of the extent of a water spill. Notify the property manager as soon as possible if you suspect a pipe leak or water entering through a wall, as the problem may be much larger than it seems.
Keep in mind that repairs costing more than a few hundred dollars may require a building permit. Talk to the landlord before undertaking such a project.
DOCUMENTATION
Verbal communication should be followed up in writing, both to avoid misunderstandings and in case such documentation is needed in any future legal proceedings.
Most landlords and property managers are eager to learn about and correct moisture and mold problems, since the longer the problems continue, the more severe and costly the damage may become.
While it is ultimately the
responsibility of the landlord or
property manager to correct
moisture problems and mold
growth in a rental property, timely
attention to potential mold problems is in
the best interests of both tenants and building
owners. Here are some tips that can help tenats
determine the best course of action in the event
of a suspected mold problem:
