Potential Mold Issue (Tenant claims)

[Teresa Hickey]

Hi everyone, I just bought a single family unit in Dallas 9 months.  It's considered a Class A property, and in an area where schools are all rated highly.  My tenants just moved in 6 months ago and claims that they have been having health issues and are moving out because of potential mold issues.  Thing is, they can't find the mold, nor can my property manager. When I bought the house 9 months ago, the inspector didn't see any mold either.   I live out of state so it's tough for me to go in take a look myself.   It is also a possibility that the tenants are just trying to get out of their lease  (they'd have to pay the rest of the lease out if they broke the lease without cause).  I'm not sure what the best thing to do at this point is. 

Should I get a mold remediation test done?  If I rent it out to another tenant, will I need to have this test done to prove there's no mold?  What are my risks? 

I hear that mold issues are very state dependent which is why I'm reaching out to all the Texas folks.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated! 

[Thomas S.]

Inform your tenants that you will be having a mold test done, make sure your PM is present to prevent your tenants from interfering. Let your tenants know if the test results do not indicate a mold risk they will be billed the cost of the inspection. You should also request a written notice from their doctor. Put them on notice that if they break their lease they will be held responsible for the duration of the lease.

Do not allow them to break their lease.  

Kim has a valid point, these type of tenants do not want any blemishes on their records. Small Claims Court will be your best friend.