According to the Centers for Disease Control, mold can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold.
If you’ve noticed mold in your apartment contact your landlord or superintendent right away. NYC landlords are legally required to maintain apartments in livable conditions and to provide necessary repairs.
Where does mold grow?
“Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery.” – Centers for Disease Control
Are there signs to look for?
Yes, there are environmental signs of mold growth and also physical signs. If your apartment develops an odor, has water leaks, has excess condensation or past flooding, you may have a mold problem. The following physical symptoms may be indicative of a mold problem: wheezing, rash, watery or itchy eyes, and coughing. Headaches, memory loss, and dizziness may be a sign of tachybotrys chartarum mold, commonly known as toxic mold . Toxic mold can lead to serious neurological issues and even death.
What to do if your landlord fails to address mold issue?
If you’ve become sick or ill after your landlord failed to address mold issues contact us today.
Our dedicated mold exposure attorneys have years of experience successfully representing New York City tenants.