How to Handle Mold and Mildew in Condos
Mold and mildew are two “m words” that no property manager wants to hear. These pesky fungi breed in areas prone to water problems, like underneath the kitchen sink. If not dealt with properly, these pests can damage the inner walls making the condo inhabitable to present and future tenants.
Not to mention the numerous health problems associated with mold and mildew. Allergic reactions, rashes, asthma attacks, and lung infections are common reactions to these fungi to which the very onset can open the association up for a lawsuit.
Preventing Mold and Mildew in Condos
The best way to avoid complications is to prevent them from arising. Instruct your tenants to perform best practices and you’ll be repaid in the future with fewer claims filed.
- Regularly check for leaks around the kitchen sink, ice makers, bathrooms, and other sources where water may be present
- Use exhaust fans to move moisture outdoors, such as when your cooking or taking a shower
- Insulate your home to prevent condensation
- Turn on dehumidifiers and air conditioners during the summer months
- Dry wet areas immediately to prevent growth
- Invest in a heating/cooling contractor to regularly inspect your equipment and ensure optimum functionality
Condo Owner vs Condo Association: Who Is To Blame
When mold strikes, the first thing everyone thinks is “am I responsible?” After all, no one wants to see an increase in their insurance premium. The bear of responsibility depends on the type of master policy selected by the condo association.
‘Bare walls’ is a more basic policy that does not cover anything inside an individual unit. This means the bear of responsibility falls on the condo owner.
However, if a condo association chooses an ‘all-in’ policy, the bear of responsibility falls on you. ‘All-in’ means what it says and says what it means. It’s a comprehensive policy that not only covers the common areas used by everyone, but also the permanent fixtures inside the condo like walls, cabinets, countertops, and light fixtures.
Solving Mold and Mildew in Condos
Every case should be carefully documented so that the bear of responsibility is shifted to the appropriate party. Arm yourself with pictures of the damage and note the location of said damage for that will be a deciding factor in how the insurance company determines responsibility.
There is typically a cap on how much an insurance carrier will pay for mold and it would be wise to familiarize yourself with that coverage.
It’s also important to foster a good relationship with your tenants. Deal with the situation in a calm yet effective way. As a property manager, you want to avoid he said vs she said situations and file claims quickly and easily as possible.
