Help! Is this toxic black mold????

Question

I just moved into my apartment 3 days ago, and when I turned off the air conditioner, I heard a splat noise-as if water was leaking. I made a mental note and went into the guest bedroom to set up the bed. Then I noticed something black protruding through the carpet. It was black mold!

When I opened the furnace closet, and peeked behind, there was mold EVERYWHERE!

There are pictures that I took at this link:

http://prostylemakeup.tripod.com/blackmold/

What would be your first choice of action if you were in this situation. I already notified the leasing office. Mold is serious, and really I just want a new Apartment. Any pointers.....legal advise etc?

Answer 1

It's mold all right. But don't panic. Most molds

are relatively harmless and the color is not a

definite indication that it's the toxic kind.

It has to be tested to determine this.

The Landlord should definitely remedy the water

problem which is the root of the problem, and

kill/ remove the mold.

Answer 2

not necessarily.we had it in an apartment once,looked similar.turned out not to be the extremely bad kind,but its still bad for sinuses/respiratory tract.if the apartment owners dont get help in say,a week-call.O.S.H.A.(look up local office online.)or call local branch of the u.s health dept.we did that,and the next day,men in "biohazard" suits came and tested the mold.we were given another apart to live in while testing/removal was completed.even tho the mold wasnt the absolute worst variety,o.s.h.a made the apart manager clean it up b4 we returned,also,all their apts were then inspected and cleaned.the governors mansion(raleigh,nc) had the toxic kind 2 years ago,the gov. and his family had to vacate.

Answer 3

I would move to a different apartment for sure. No sense in taking a risk! I personally have never seen mold that bad! I would not stay in the place another night. Get a hotel until you can move!

Answer 4

that is black mold. you should contact your local housing dept. and or legal aid.

what your apt. might try and do is cover it up with paint.

Black mold has to be removed. paint and other sealents  will not work.

it is a health hazzard.  you did the right thing and took pictures.

you most likely can leave your apartment if you under a lease.

and move somewere else.but check to see first ,laws are diffrent  everywhere.

also have a few of your friends and or parents come by and look at it too.Just in case you have to take them to court.