Toxic mold is a growing concern in rental units

On Behalf of | May 11, 2017 | Blog |

It may have started as a scratchy throat, but as you grew sicker, you feared it was something more serious. When you realized the symptoms began soon after you moved into your new rental unit, the pieces began to fall into place.

Perhaps you purchased a toxic mold kit from the hardware store or called a professional for an evaluation, and the results likely frightened you. The house or apartment you are renting contains potentially deadly toxic mold, and it is making you ill.

Why am I sick?

Mold grows in secret, behind walls, above ceilings or anywhere that is dark and damp. If the rental unit had a leaky roof or plumbing issues, the water may have created a perfect environment for mold to grow. Mold is common in North Carolina because of the humid climate.

Mold is a fungus that creates spores as part of reproduction. Not all molds are toxic, and most people inhale mold spores on a regular basis and suffer no ill effects. Additionally, not everyone reacts the same way to toxic mold exposure. Many people experience only minor reactions and may pass it off as allergies. However, some of the common symptoms of toxic exposure include:

  • Cold-like symptoms
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Nausea and dizziness
  • Asthma
  • Sinus infections
  • Skin infections
  • Mycotoxin toxicity

Some of these symptoms may disappear after you move or when your landlord removes the hazard, but many people suffer with toxic mold symptoms for the rest of their lives. For some, the exposure is deadly. If your landlord refuses to address the contamination, you may have cause for concern.

What are my options?

If your doctor has diagnosed you with toxic mold illness, you are likely watching the medical bills pile up. Perhaps you have seen a series of specialists or received several expensive prescriptions. You may have even spent time in the hospital for diagnosis or treatment. You may wonder how long it will last and how much your health — and your wallet — can handle.

Speaking with an attorney may give you the answers you need. A lawyer will evaluate your situation and determine if you have cause to seek compensation from your landlord. Many who have successfully filed claims in civil court have been able to obtain the medical care they need.

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