Can I break lease/get paid for black mold in my apartment?

[amira_sadi]

I am in GA, and I moved into my apartment about 4 months ago. I have been coughing, sneezing, and blowing my nose since I got here. I was aware that there were problems with the roof before I moved in, but the management assured me that they were fixed. I asked them to change the a/c filter, and they did, but I was still sneezing. A couple months ago, I asked them to clean the ducts. I followed up several times, but they never did any more than changing the filter. A couple weeks ago, we had a very bad rain, and chunks started falling out of the ceiling in the laundry room. It also started leaking. The mgmt said to wait until all the storms passed and they would fix the roof. Meanwhile, my respiratory issues have worsened. Last week, I noticed that mold had begun to grow on the several of the vents. I reported the one in the bedroom, and maintenance told me it was rust and painted over it. I'm pretty sure they are lying, so I took pictures and collected samples. I don't want to stay here being poisoned for another 8 months. At the very least, I think they should let me out of the lease and give my deposit back. My dad thinks that I could sue and get some money, also. What should I do next?

Put all the repair issues in a letter and ask that they address the repairs within 10 days since the water can damage your belonings. Send this by certified mail, return receipt requested, and keep a copy and the postcard that comes back. If they fail to begin repairs and correct the problems quickly, you will be able to rent withhold with the clerk of court, or terminate your lease once you have documented all the mold with a professional mold test (available by health departments, HUD, the EPA, or air quality control companies). Send the letter, then repost after they reply.