Is this Black Mold? Update with Results from my bedroom sample that was tested

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The information found on this blogpage is not intended or implied to replace professional legal or financial help. All content contained on this blogpage including, but not limited to, images, text, graphics, and information are for general informational purposes only. This blogpage is meant to provide examples to users that are researching information as a tenant.  

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What are a Landlord's Duties Regarding Water Leaks and Mold in Texas?

 

There was this black moldy looking substance on 3 air conditioning vents in my apt, the 2 upstairs bedrooms and my front living room downstairs. I have no idea how long it’s been there. I’m just noticing it. 

 

Daughter's bedroom

My bedroom

My bedroom

Front living room

I purchased a $9 mold kit from Home Depot to test the mold. Which came back positive for mold.  I then had it sent off to the Mold Lab Test Analysis ($40) to have it professionally tested for the type of Black Mold it was.   Mold can be a toxin and can cause all kinds of health issues relating to the respiratory system and other health problems. It took 10 days to get the results back.  

Black Mold Testing Kit

I did send an email and a certified return receipt letter to the apartment management office, notifying them.  Maintenance came out the next day and replaced the vents. 

Replaced vents in Daughter's bedroom

 

Replaced vents in my bedroom

Replaced vents in front living room

I did send another email to the office, asking if they were going to have the vent's tested for Black Mold.  I've yet to receive a response.

 

Sept 9, 2020

I received the Mold Identification Report from the test sample  which confirmed it was a toxic mold. I did report this to the office, they did nothing to remedy the Black Mold (which is negligent).

 

Below are some of the molds that are toxic that you should be aware of.

As with other states, Texas property laws outline various duties and responsibilities for landlords. These can range from keeping the premises safe to dealing with various repairs and other issues. Failure to comply with these duties and requirements can result in legal liability for the landlord.

For instance, the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act requires landlords to disclose known facts about the property that may strongly influence a prospective tenant’s decision to rent. This includes disclosing knowledge about currently existing issues with the property, such as water leaks and mold infestations.

In most cases, landlords will offer the information to avoid any potential legal liability. Also, if a prospective tenant asks about these issues, a landlord is required to answer truthfully.

 

Read the Texas Deceptive Trades Practices Act.  When I read about it, it also pertains to landlords' responsibilities and tenants rights.  Lots of good information for consumers.  Click the link below. 

Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act

  You can get more information from the website:

https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/landlords-duties-regarding-mold-in-texas.html 

 

***********************************Disclaimer***************************************

The information found on this blogpage is not intended or implied to replace professional legal or financial help. All content contained on this blogpage including, but not limited to, images, text, graphics, and information are for general informational purposes only. This blogpage is meant to provide examples to users that are researching information as a tenant.  

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