What can you do if the landlord knew about a mold problem and did not tell when rented this house in Ohio?

In Ohio, if the landlord knew about a mold problem and failed to disclose this information before renting the house, you may have legal rights and remedies available to you as a tenant. Here's what you can do:

1. Document the Mold Problem:

- Take photographs and videos of the mold growth and the affected areas in the rental house.

- Keep a detailed record of the dates and times when you observed mold, as well as any symptoms you or other occupants have experienced.

2. Notify the Landlord:

- Send a written notice to the landlord informing them about the mold problem and requesting that they address it promptly. Keep a copy of the notice for your records.

- Specify a reasonable deadline for the landlord to take action (usually within a certain number of days).

3. Review Your Lease Agreement:

- Carefully review the terms of your lease agreement to see if there are any provisions related to mold or the landlord's responsibility for maintaining a habitable property.

4. Check Local Housing Codes:

- Familiarize yourself with the local housing codes and regulations in Ohio that pertain to mold in residential properties.

- If the landlord's failure to address the mold problem violates these codes, it could strengthen your case.

5. Contact the Local Housing Authority:

- If the landlord does not respond to your notice or fails to take action to resolve the mold problem, you can file a complaint with the local housing authority responsible for enforcing housing regulations.

- Provide them with all relevant documentation and information you've gathered.

6. Seek Legal Advice:

- If the mold problem poses a significant health risk or substantially interferes with your ability to safely and comfortably live in the house, you may want to consult with an attorney specializing in landlord-tenant law in Ohio.

- They can assess your situation, advise you on your rights, and guide you through the appropriate legal steps to take.

7. Consider Withholding Rent (in extreme cases):

- In some jurisdictions, tenants may be able to withhold rent if the landlord fails to provide habitable living conditions. However, this is a complex legal matter, and you should seek legal counsel before taking such a step.

Remember to keep all communication with your landlord in writing, and retain copies of all relevant documents, including the lease agreement, notices, and any correspondence related to the mold issue.