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Foundation problem - mold found, is there anything I can do?

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dream_catcher_8

Junior Member
What is the name of your state? Iowa

Just wondering how I should deal with this. Recently my apartment flooded due to a problem with the foundation. We found a hole in the foundation outside and due to current ice melting water flowed from outside through a maintenance closet in the hallway and through our front door to our apartment. The place of the hole and the closet are not part of our actual apartment they are in "community" areas. Several tenants advised that this flooding happens everytime it rains or there is melting snow/ice. I have 4 -5 different tenants who have lived at the apartment who are willing to sign statements saying that this happens often. Also when the closet was opened there is at least 12 inches of mold on all walls in the closet. I feel this also proves that this is a constant problem. I took pictures of the foundation problem and of the mold. We were never informed that water leaked in everytime there was rain or melting. Would this be considered a failure to disclose information - the landlord advised she was not aware of this happening more than once and I showed her the pictures of the mold. This seems to have been going on for over 3 years now and I personally would like to get out of my lease for it but the landlord said it was out of the question. I told her I would like to ask a lawyer about it and her response was "go ahead and try it" Any ideas on if there is something that can legally be done? I dont want to use my renters insurance for water damage 3 or 4 times a year.
 


ecmst12

Senior Member
Don't think it's a valid reason to break your lease until LL has been given a reasonable chance to repair. Make sure you notify them in writing (certified mail) of the problem and give them time to act. If no action in 30 days, call the housing inspector.
 

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