Asked by user in Florida. Answered by Enjuris Editors.
It’s your landlord’s responsibility to maintain a safe living environment for tenants. You’re correct to request cleaning and sanitizing of an AC unit. Aside from risks from the spread of COVID-19, used AC units can also carry mold, mildew, and other biological contaminants that can be distributed into the air you breathe in your home.
If you believe that the AC unit is causing your chest congestion and lethargy, the first step is to have a medical examination to seek a diagnosis for your symptoms. If your doctor makes a diagnosis that is consistent with airborne contamination that could come from an AC unit, you need to provide notice to your landlord immediately in writing.
If you advise the landlord that your physician believes the AC unit is causing you medical distress, the landlord should either clean or replace the unit. If the landlord is unresponsive, contact a landlord/tenant lawyer who can intervene. It’s important that you keep records of your correspondence with the landlord. Ideal correspondence is in writing because that’s easiest to prove, but if you have face-to-face conversations, keep notes of dates, times, and the nature of the conversation.
You’re welcome to use the Florida personal injury law firm directory to find an attorney near you who can assist. Good luck, and I hope you feel better soon.