Tenants Complaint re Mold

[Wendy Jiang]

Today I got a text from one of my tenants saying she has had some breathing problems since moving in (2 months ago) and asked if I have ever done mold inspection. I am not sure how to respond and what will be the next steps.

I took over the property about 2.5 years ago. Mold inspection was never performed, as there was no concern about mold. The previous tenants have lived there for 16 years and have never mentioned mold related issues. Then I had tenants living there for 2 years and have never mentioned any issue. 

[Nathan Gesner]

Mold is a common complaint from tenants, particularly those trying to exploit you.

Mold is everywhere, even in the air we breathe outside every day. Toxic mold is not that common. Most health issues with mold are in people that already have pre-existing issues (e.g. asthma) that is worsened by the presence of mold.

Does the tenant see mold anywhere? If not, why would they suspect mold is the culprit?

If they do see mold, investigate and remedy.

Review the EPA Mold Guide and share it with your tenant. This will give you both enough information to get started.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/brief-guide-mold-moisture-and-your-...