Found mold growing under a chair mat, which sat on top of engineered hardwood glued down on concrete slab. I thought it was just due to the mat being there for so long, so sheeted off the area, put on a respirator and old clothes, and cleaned off the surface mold with Concrobium. Discarded the mat. After couple weeks of drying and air venting, mold smell still lingered in the quarantined area. Decided to continue investigation, removed a piece of the flooring and found it was water damaged and mold underneath. Removed the flooring where a stain was visible from the surface. Still damaged wood remained, so decided to hire professional to finish the job. General contractor reviewed the situation and determined that the floor was more moist in and near the damage area, and that the weep holes on the exterior wall were covered by stucco. GC sent a report to my HOA. HOA sent their own contractors who found dry wall was moist as well. HOA contractors did a water test and found crack/leak source where a small roof attaches to the exterior wall. HOA contractors patched the crack, replaced drywall and insulation. However, the HOA is not willing to contribute to the floor repair.
GC suggested going through my insurance who would possibly replace all the flooring (and ask the HOA for contribution), but I am okay with just removing the remaining damaged flooring, any remaining mold remediation, and patching the flooring (about 6' x 10'). I am okay that the flooring is not going to match perfectly, just want a healthy, livable room :) A lawyer can send a demand letter, but after legal fees may not be worth it. Are there any affordable options I have to try to convince the HOA to help with the flooring repair? Any advice appreciated!
California
