Any New Jersey homeowner or resident knows that mold management can turn into a significant problem. Knowledge of NJ mold laws can go a long way in preventing or mitigating the effects of this menace to the health of the occupants and their property, regardless of whether you are a tenant or landlord.
Are there specific laws on mold in New Jersey?
Currently, there are no statutes that address mold in New Jersey. This might sound ridiculous, but it does not make one vulnerable or unsafe. Other relevant codes include health codes, laws that govern landlords and tenants, and building codes can still be implemented when mold is a problem.
This means that even though there is not a direct law, it does not excuse landlords or property owners. They still have duties that they have to fulfill in order to ensure that living conditions are safe, and mold is likely to breach these standards.
Tenants’ rights
You do not have to live in a home with mold. After you make a complaint regarding the problem, your landlord should address the problem by providing a solution to it. This could entail seeking the services of a mold removal firm, fixing a roof or a pipe that is causing water seepage, or increasing ventilation.
Even if your landlord does not care about the problem, you have rights. New Jersey tenants are allowed to withhold rent, repair the problem themselves, deduct the cost from the rent, or even terminate the lease in extreme cases. But you should seek the assistance of a lawyer before undertaking any of these measures.
List of tenants’ responsibilities
Of course, landlords also have duties, but tenants also have some duties to avoid mold formation. They expect you to maintain your rental unit in a reasonably clean state and to inform the landlord immediately of any maintenance issues such as leakage or dampness.
If you create the mold issue, for example, by not opening the window after a shower, then you will be expected to solve it. The same applies to any mold formation that may result from a lack of proper maintenance of the property. It is always important to avoid mold at all costs, which can be done by managing moisture.
Landlord duties regarding mold
Mold problems are legal nightmares to landlords in case they occur in their premises. All you have to do is ensure that the place is safe to live in. If mold is present and it’s due to structural problems or lack of maintenance, then it has to be dealt with.
Mold is usually an indication of other issues such as leakage, inadequate air flow, or perhaps a broken pipe. Not paying attention to mold will not only be a nuisance to tenants but can result in legal cases, health concerns, and damages.
When a tenant informs you of mold on the premises, you should not waste time. In most cases, it is wise to hire a mold removal service provider to help you get rid of the mold. In some cases, wiping the mold off yourself may not be enough, especially if it is all over the place or has been caused by a more serious problem.
What is mold, and why should you be concerned?
Mold is an undesirable growth that has its origin in damp and dark areas of a building. It is common in places such as basements, bathrooms, or any other area that has suffered from water damage. People may look at mold as just something that is unsightly and insignificant, but it is actually so much worse.
Inhalation of mold spores brings about some health complications. One of the occupants or members of the household might be having an allergy, asthma, or any other respiratory complications. In the extreme, it is possible that the effects of mold can reduce the strength of your immune system and lead to infections. Mold can also cause harm to your property, and you may end up having to spend a lot of money for repair work whenever this aspect is not addressed.
Conclusion
Mold is a problem in New Jersey that poses a threat to your health and your property. Awareness of NJ mold laws is beneficial in shielding oneself and in being informed of the laws regardless of whether one is a renter, property owner, or homeowner. Take action on mold problems immediately in order to prevent more harm and dangers in the long run.
