How do I enforce my Landlord to repair Mold growth in my rental home?

Regardless of the terms of the lease or rental agreement, the law requires the landlord to repair conditions, which may affect a tenant’s physical health or safety.  The landlord must maintain the premises in compliance with specific building codes and local ordinances.  Damages caused by weather, such as mold growing on the ceiling, are the responsibility of the landlord.  Once notified of a defective condition, the landlord has a certain amount of time to make repairs.  This would fall under the category of a non-emergency repair in which the landlord has 10 days to remedy the situation.

Put your complaint in writing to document the problem and include photos of the mold.  Send all of this via certified mail, return receipt requested, so that you have a record that the landlord received the documents and is fully aware of the problem.

The landlord’s failure to comply with this law may entitle a tenant to perform the repair and deduct the costs from the rent.  Under the law, even if you have a claim against your landlord for not maintaining your rental property, you are not excused from paying rent.