Q: Is my apartment kitchen required to have an exhaust system in San Mateo county?
I have no exhaust system in my apartment in Burlingame. Is this required? Grease builds up and I’ve noticed mold build up in the winter when it’s cold outside and I cook inside.
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A:
In California, housing and building codes do set minimum standards for ventilation in residential units, which can include requirements for exhaust systems in kitchens. These standards are in place to ensure that air quality is maintained and to prevent problems such as mold and excessive moisture. The specific requirements can vary depending on the local ordinances of San Mateo County and the city of Burlingame.
If your apartment lacks an exhaust system, leading to grease buildup and mold, this could potentially be a violation of health and safety standards. California's health and safety code requires residential properties to be kept in a condition that does not endanger the health and safety of residents, and adequate ventilation is part of these requirements.
You might consider discussing this issue with your landlord or property management company, expressing your concerns about the lack of an exhaust system and the resulting problems. If the response is not satisfactory, you may contact the local building department or health department in Burlingame or San Mateo County for an inspection or guidance. They can provide information on whether your apartment meets the local building and health codes regarding ventilation and what steps can be taken to address the issue.
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