Residents decide to move out after property owners ignore mold problem
Fargo, ND (WDAY TV) - For the past five years, some senior citizens at the Century Estates community in south Fargo say they've been living in homes infested with mold. They've raised the alarm, had inspectors visit their homes, and contacted the city for help, but they say it's no use. The seniors say property owners ignore the problem, and now it's prompted one couple to call it quits and move out.
- Living with mold
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Maria Nelson's parents have lived in Century Estates for nearly 11 years. Five years ago, they were told about the mold problem and they say the only thing that's been done to fix it is to paint over the problem. Finally, Maria and her siblings decided enough was enough.
“We just expected more from Fargo, North Dakota. I know I did. I wouldn't live any other place and yet, the community failed them.”
Maria Nelson and her sister are thankful their parents are still alive. They say living in mold like this has caused the couple countless health problems: chronic bloody noses, fingernail infections, and sores around the eyes. All of the couple's possessions are being thrown out. Maria and her family don't want to take the chance that it could all be contaminated
“Basically they are starting from scratch. They've lost everything to mold, everything.”
Maria video taped conversations with the property owner and resident manager. This is what they had to say about compensating her parents:
“We could probably come up with something as soon as Monday; the tough part is going to be the medical.”
Barbara Hartleben lives next door and shares the mold problem. These are pictures taken of the growing number of spores in the attic.
“I mean, what more can you do, other than move?”
Moving is an option Barbara says she and her husband now have to consider, for their health and their peace of mind. Barbara says she talks with the rental office by phone or mail at least every two weeks and always gets the same answer.
“Every unit has mold in it, or we have that too, or we'll fix it in the spring. And nothing ever gets fixed.”
Maria's says her parent's health has improved significantly since they left the home. She says this fight isn't about being compensated; she just wants to make sure no other vulnerable person moves in to a home with mold. Our calls to Prairie Property management for comment were unsuccessful.
Tags: reporter stories, christina vaughn, fargo, health, news, nelson
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