Practice Areas
Los Angeles Mold Attorney
To successfully prosecute a mold injury case, Los Angeles Mold Attorney Philip Shakhnis puts together a team of reputable experts including an expert to test the indoor environment for mold as well as a mold-allergy expert. Having the right experts is especially important in mold litigation as there is no certification in California for indoor mold testing. Philip Shakhnis therefore employs experts with Ph.d’s who are widely recognized in the field.
Mold Can Cause Serious Injuries
Mold is a fungus that can cause serious injuries. With the science still developing, there is not yet a scientific consensus as to the full extent of the injuries that are caused by mold. However, scientists do agree that persons who are allergic to certain species of mold can suffer serious injuries. Harmful health impacts from mold include: injury to the respiratory system, skin rashes, nasal and sinus congestion, worsening of allergies, fever, burning and watering eyes, worsening of asthma and headaches.
Mold develops when there is a source of moisture that wets a surface without drying. With 24 to 48 hours, mold can multiply and begin to cause health impacts in the indoor environment.
First Steps to Take to Protect Your Rights
To protect your rights as a tenant you should consider taking the following steps:
- If you see physical evidence of mold inside your home, call and make a complaint to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health at (888) 700-9995. Th Public Health Department will cite the landlord if the inspector can see the mold but the inspector does not conduct mold testing.
- Take photos and videotape of all unhealthy and unsafe living conditions in your home.
- Make complaints about all of the problems to your landlord or apartment manager in writing and keep a copy.
- Contact an attorney to review your rights and legal options.
Verdicts & Settlements
$985,925 – Mold Exposure/Uninhabitable Home
Family resided in a home with a leaking water heater that resulted in a growing mold infestation in the water heater closet that was spreading into the adjoining walls of the master bathroom. The home’s heating system was also broken and cold drafts entered through gaps in doors and windows. The combination of mold infestation and a cold home caused the mother of the family to develop an infection and inflammation in her brain. She now has a permanent seizure disorder. Other family members also suffered respiratory and sinus symptoms from the uninhabitable conditions. A jury at the Pomona courthouse reached a verdict in the family’s favor.
$130,000 – Mold Exposure
Mother and young son exposed to mold and lack of working heaters in their apartment. Mother suffered severe exacerbation of asthma, fatigue, achy joints, insomnia and frequent colds. Son experienced bloody noses as well as nasal and respiratory symptoms. Mold was caused by rainwater leaks and plumbing leaks.
$45,000 – Mold Exposure
Family exposed to mold which was not repaired by landlord. Family experienced asthma symptoms, nasal congestion, lack of sleep and emotional distress.
Do You Have A Mold Case?
Free Case Evaluation
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