Environmental hazards such as mold, lead paint, and asbestos pose significant health risks in rental properties. Landlords in Washington State have specific responsibilities to ensure their properties are safe and habitable. Understanding these obligations is crucial for both landlords and tenants. This article outlines the responsibilities of landlords in Washington State regarding mold and other environmental hazards, and the legal recourse available to tenants.

Landlord Responsibilities

Mold:

Landlords are required to maintain rental properties in a habitable condition, which includes addressing mold issues. Mold can cause various health problems, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies. Some key responsibilities include:

  1. Preventive Maintenance: Landlords must conduct regular inspections and maintenance to prevent water leaks and moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold growth.
  2. Prompt Repairs: It is essential for landlords to quickly address any leaks, plumbing issues, or other sources of moisture when reported by tenants.
  3. Disclosure: Landlords must inform tenants about any existing mold issues and provide educational materials on mold prevention and remediation as required by the Washington State Mold Law (RCW 59.18.060).

Lead Paint:

Properties built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, which poses serious health risks, especially to children. Landlords have specific responsibilities to manage lead paint hazards:

  1. Disclosure: Landlords must provide tenants with an EPA-approved information pamphlet on lead-based paint hazards. Additionally, they must disclose any known lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards in the property.
  2. Maintenance: Maintaining painted surfaces to prevent peeling, chipping, or deterioration is crucial, as this can release lead dust.
  3. Safe Practices: During renovations or repairs that disturb lead-based paint, landlords must follow lead-safe work practices to prevent contamination.

Asbestos:

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials for its fire-resistant properties but is now known to cause serious health issues. Landlords must manage asbestos hazards responsibly:

  1. Identification: Landlords should know the locations of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the property and monitor their condition.
  2. Disclosure: If asbestos is present, landlords must inform tenants and provide guidelines on how to avoid disturbing ACMs.
  3. Professional Removal: For asbestos removal or repairs, landlords must hire licensed professionals, as improper handling can release hazardous fibers into the air.

Other Environmental Hazards:

Landlords are also responsible for managing other environmental hazards, such as radon, carbon monoxide, and pesticide residues:

  1. Radon: Landlords are encouraged to test for radon and mitigate high levels as needed, ensuring safe living conditions.
  2. Carbon Monoxide: Installing carbon monoxide detectors as required by law is essential, particularly in properties with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages.
  3. Pesticides: Landlords must inform tenants about pesticide use in the property and follow safety guidelines for application.

Tenants in Washington State have the right to live in habitable conditions. If landlords fail to meet their responsibilities, tenants have several legal options:

  1. Repair and Deduct: If landlords fail to address serious mold or environmental hazards after being notified, tenants may be able to arrange for repairs and deduct the cost from their rent (RCW 59.18.100).
  2. Legal Action: Tenants can file a lawsuit against landlords who neglect their duty to maintain a habitable living environment, seeking damages for any health issues or property damage caused by the environmental hazards.

Landlords in Washington State must take proactive steps to prevent and address environmental hazards such as mold, lead paint, and asbestos. By understanding and fulfilling these responsibilities, landlords can ensure their properties remain safe and habitable for tenants.

If you are a landlord needing guidance on your responsibilities, the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer is here to help. Our experienced legal team can provide the support and advice you need to navigate these complex issues effectively. Contact us today at (360) 334-6277 to learn more about your rights and obligations.