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In 2001, noted human rights activist and ex-wife of Rolling Stone lead singer, Bianca Jagger, noticed that her health was beginning to change. Her eyes were red and watery and she was experiencing increased headaches. Then, the symptoms increased. She noticed she had difficulty breathing. She felt like she had the flu all the time. Like so many residential tenants she had no idea what was causing it. That is until her neighbor, who had the same symptoms, told her she might have a problem with toxic mold. A little research on the internet confirmed her suspicions.
Initially, it seems like something that building maintenance could handle, but upon further inspection they found significant water leaks that had not been addressed by the landlord. Jagger hired mold inspectors who found high levels of Aspergillus, Penicillium and Stachybotrys.
By the end of 2001, with Jagger’s health in disarray, she was forced to move from the unit because the conditions were intolerable.
In 2003, Jagger stopped paying rent on her $4600-a-month apartment. Each month she puts the full amount into an escrow account while the City undertakes an investigation.
In 2004, she filed suit against her landlord, Katz Park Avenue. That lawsuit is still in the midst of litigation today.
