TOXIC MOLD ILLNESS

Black molds that are found in buildings and homes have led to widespread property damage and illness. Insurance companies are often reluctant to deal with these claims and many do not pay them. Lawsuits have been commenced in many states against insurers who have not honored their contracts to homeowners. Other lawsuits have been brought on behalf of individuals who have been harmed by mold exposure at home or work. People exposed to mold can develop serious breathing problems including asthma attacks.
I. Mold is very common and can be tested to see if it is "Toxic." Unfortunately, one of the more common types is the black mold known as stachybotrys atra. Stachybotrys produce airborne mycotoxins which can lead to a range of health problems.
A Harvard University study that surveyed 10,000 residential homes, discovered that mold produced a 50 to 100% increase in respiratory problems. A study done by the Mayo Clinic concluded as many as 37 million sufferers of chronic sinus infections may be able to attribute it to mold. After a leak, water damage or plain poor construction that allows dampness in the interior of a home or business structure, the mold grows rapidly. In many cases the structure lacks adequate ventilation leading to moisture buildup and mold breeding areas.The mold spreads on wood, tiles, drywall, paper and carpet, it is often out of sight growing behind walls or under floors. In many cases the problems have forced homeowners to leave or even condemnation of the home itself.
Toxic mold contamination that results in severe health problems, has been the subject of numerous lawsuits against building owners, companies as well as against insurance companies who try and dismiss these claims as frivolous. However, people in courts around the country are taking these claims very seriously.
In Delaware, two woman were awarded $1.04 million after their landlord failed to fix leaks and mold problems in their apartment. Both woman claimed the landlord's negligence resulted in serious health problems in asthma attacks.
In Texas a homeowner received $1.5 million in a bad-faith lawsuit against his insurance company, after the company refused to pay his claim for mold damage to his home.
In California a group received $1.3 million for toxic mold claims against the builders and contractors whose shoddy workmanship allowed leaks to cause mold to invade their homes.
In California a jury awarded $18 million (including punitive damages) to a homeowner against Allstate Insurance for denying his claims for mold damage. The judge later lowered the award to $3 million.