Tenant Rights for Mold Issues in Ohio Apartments - Laws and Tips

Dealing with Mold in Your Ohio Apartment as a Tenant

Mold can be a big issue for renters in Ohio. As a tenant, you have certain rights when it comes to addressing mold in your rental unit. This guide will outline what you need to know about mold in apartments in Ohio and what you can do as a tenant if you spot mold in your rental.

What Causes Mold in Apartments?

Mold spores are present everywhere - both indoors and outdoors. Mold can begin growing indoors when excess moisture or water accumulates. Some common causes of moisture that can lead to mold growth in apartments include:

- Plumbing leaks

- Flooding

- High humidity

- Condensation on windows, walls, or surfaces

- Water intrusion from the roof, walls, or foundation

If the moisture issue is not addressed quickly, mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours. Apartments with poor ventilation, leaks, or flood damage are prone to developing mold if the moisture is not dried up.

Health Effects of Mold Exposure

Some people are more sensitive to mold than others. Potential health effects of mold exposure include:

- Allergic reactions like runny nose, eye irritation, coughing, congestion

- Asthma symptoms or asthma attacks in those with asthma

- Respiratory issues

- Skin irritation

Exposure to high levels of mold can potentially lead to more severe reactions. People with asthma, allergies, lung disease, or compromised immune systems may be most susceptible to the harmful effects of mold.

Signs of Mold in Your Rental Unit

As a tenant, you need to keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth. Common indicators that mold may be present include:

- Visible mold growth - may appear fuzzy, slimy or have a musty odor

- Damp spots or moisture on walls, floors, ceilings, or cabinets

- Peeling or curling paint or wallpaper

- Musty odor throughout the apartment

- Signs of water damage like staining or warped surfaces

- Condensation accumulating on windows or other surfaces

If you spot any of these signs, inspect further and check inside cabinets, under sinks, around plumbing fixtures, and behind furniture. Notify your landlord right away if you see mold.

Ohio Tenant Rights Regarding Mold

In Ohio, tenants have certain rights when it comes to mold in their rental unit. Here are some key aspects of Ohio law as a renter:

Landlord Responsibilities

Under Ohio law, landlords must:

- Comply with all health, safety and housing codes. This includes addressing moisture issues and leaks that could lead to mold growth.

- Make repairs to keep the property in a fit, habitable condition. This includes fixing plumbing leaks, flood damage or humidity issues.

- Maintain all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating and ventilating systems in good working order.

If a landlord fails to take care of a mold issue after being notified, they may be considered negligent under state law.

Tenant Rights

As a tenant, you have the following rights related to mold in Ohio:

- You have the right to a rental that is safe, sanitary and habitable under local housing codes.

- You can report mold concerns directly to your local health department or housing code agency if the landlord fails to respond.

- You have the right to file a lawsuit against your landlord for damages related to mold exposure due to negligence.

- You may be able to terminate your lease agreement if your landlord does not address a serious mold issue.

Tenants should notify landlords of mold in writing and keep documentation of all communications, photos of the mold, as well as records of health issues.

Landlord Obligations for Mold Remediation

If mold is present due to a failure of the landlord to maintain the property, they are usually responsible for paying for and conducting mold remediation. This includes:

- Fixing the underlying moisture issue like a leak.

- Removing contaminated materials with mold growth.

- Cleaning and drying all affected areas.

- Following EPA guidelines for safe mold cleanup.

The landlord cannot try to make the tenant pay for the costs of mold remediation in most cases. Tenants should avoid trying to remove mold on their own without the landlord's approval.

Temporary Housing During Remediation

If mold remediation requires you to vacate the unit temporarily, Ohio law states that the landlord must provide suitable temporary housing or reimburse you for the costs of temporary accommodations. Make sure to get any agreement for temporary housing in writing.

Getting Legal Help

A landlord who refuses to adequately address a mold issue may be violating Ohio landlord-tenant laws. A qualified attorney can help tenants understand their rights and options in fighting back against a non-responsive landlord.

Tips for Tenants in Preventing and Addressing Mold

While your landlord is responsible for properly maintaining the unit, there are also some steps tenants can take to prevent and address mold:

- Open windows when showering or cooking to reduce humidity.

- Make sure to run bathroom fans during and after showering.

- Use dehumidifiers and air conditioning to remove excess moisture.

- Avoid hanging wet clothes indoors to dry.

- Clean any signs of condensation, leaks or water damage immediately.

- Wipe down shower walls and clean hard surfaces regularly to inhibit mold growth.

- Let your landlord know immediately if you see signs of moisture or mold.

Acting quickly to reduce moisture and report mold can help prevent more severe mold infestations. Make sure to document your efforts to notify your landlord regarding a mold issue. As a tenant in Ohio, you have important legal rights when it comes to mold in your apartment. Do your part in preventing mold growth and hold your landlord accountable for properly maintaining your unit. Consult qualified legal help if your landlord refuses to adequately address a mold issue that is impacting your health or safety. With the right approach, you can successfully get hazardous mold properly removed from your rental.

FAQs

What are some early signs of mold in an apartment?

Some early signs of mold include musty odors, damp spots on walls or floors, condensation buildup, and peeling or curling paint or wallpaper. Acting quickly when spotting early signs can help prevent a larger mold issue.

Can mold in an apartment make me sick?

Yes, mold exposure can cause allergy symptoms, asthma attacks, respiratory issues, and other health effects, especially in sensitive individuals. Immediately report any mold to your landlord to get it properly removed.

What if my landlord won't fix a mold problem?

In Ohio, you can report unaddressed mold to your local health department or housing agency. You also have the right to sue your landlord for failing to address a mold issue. Consulting a tenant rights lawyer can help.

Who is responsible for paying for mold removal and repairs?

In most cases, the landlord is responsible for paying for professional mold remediation, fixing moisture issues, and repairing any related damage if mold is present due to their failure to properly maintain the property.

Can I break my lease if there is mold?

You may be able to legally break your lease if your landlord refuses to properly address a serious mold issue, but it depends on your individual rental agreement. Get legal advice to understand your options.