One of the many perks of renting a home in North Carolina is the ability to rely on landlords for property repairs and general maintenance. However, some tenants experience issues regarding landlord reliability and concerns about upkeep in rental homes.
It is important to understand renters’ rights when moving into a rental house, condo, town home or apartment. An issue renters might come across is the presence of mold in the home and the lack of concern or action on behalf of landlords. While some types of mold are harmless, others such as stachybotrys atra, or black mold, can produce toxins that are dangerous to breathe. When inhaled, some molds can produce central nervous system problems and even convulsions.
A Prevalent Issue
Mold can exist in a plethora of places, but if found in the home, professional inspections may be necessary. In the case of rental homes, WRAL News reports that renters have little control over mold management. Renters in some areas of North Carolina have experienced black mold in the home, but have yet to receive proper inspections from landlords. Those experiencing such issues may file a lawsuit against landlords, but are first encouraged to record signs of mold, discussions with the landlords regarding the mold and take photos of mold in the home. All of such can provide proof in the case of legal procedures.
Possible Solutions
Wake County Environmental Services points out that there are currently no specific laws regulating mold levels in private homes in the state of North Carolina. However, tenants may take action in addition to recording mold to address landlord neglect. Tenants may hire a mold inspector or remediator to come to the home, or contact the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office and speak with the Landlord Tenant Specialist. The North Carolina Health Hazards Branch also addresses problems with mold in private homes.