MOLD & MYCOTOXIN EXPOSURE
Facing the repercussions of toxic mold exposure, Wet Building Syndrome or uninhabitability can be overwhelming. During these trying times, victims need clear, expert legal guidance that comprehends the multifaceted nature of such issues and the deeply personal impact they can have.
Wet Building Syndrome and Uninhabitability Claims
We offer expert legal guidance and comprehend the multifaceted nature of such issues including the profound personal impact they can have.
Reputation for Excellence
Lawyers and victims alike turn to us from across the country, seeking our unparalleled expertise. When it comes to this specialized field, no other law firm can match our reputation, background, or proven track record. We don't just litigate; we lead, innovate, and set the standards. Our firm is consistently sought out by both legal professionals and victims alike for guidance and representation. Years of dedicated service and numerous victories have solidified our standing as a trusted name in this field.
We have a track record that speaks volumes
Over the years, we've secured countless victories for our clients, testifying to our unmatched skill, meticulous preparation, and fierce courtroom presence. Our reputation as seasoned trial lawyers is not just known but revered, making us the go-to choice for challenging cases.
Comprehensive understanding of Toxic Mold and Wet Building Syndrome
Toxic Mold Exposure and Wet Building Syndrome can manifest in a wide range of health issues, from respiratory ailments to neurological problems. Our deep understanding of these complex conditions ensures that we can effectively advocate for our clients, connecting the dots between their health issues and their environment.
Why our background matters
Many firms claim expertise, but few have the extensive case experience that we do. Our specialization in this area means we understand the intricacies and nuances of each case, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in seeking justice for our clients.
Mold exposure and Wet Building Syndrome can lead to devastating health consequences, leaving victims with a myriad of symptoms and often a sense of hopelessness. When faced with such overwhelming challenges, you deserve representation by the absolute best in the field.
Leading the Way
Our leadership extends beyond the courtroom. We are at the forefront of raising awareness about the dangers of toxic mold and Wet Building Syndrome.
Collaborating with world-renowned experts
To bolster our advocacy, we've established collaborations with leading global experts on toxic mold exposure, Wet Building Syndrome, and habitability concerns. This ensures that our clients benefit from top-tier insights and the latest research.
California's Implied Warranty of Habitability
In California, tenants have a legal right to a habitable living space. This is enshrined in the state's implied warranty of habitability, which obliges landlords to maintain:
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Effective waterproofing and weather protection
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Working plumbing and gas facilities
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Clean, pest-free buildings and grounds
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Adequate trash receptacles
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Safe floors, stairways, and railings
​If these standards are not met, landlords are not only breaching a lease agreement but also violating California law.
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Understanding Mold Exposure
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Moisture is the Key: The Foundation of Mold Growth
Mold and microbial elements thrive in moisture-rich environments. Any cellulose material can serve as a food source, such as wood or drywall. Understanding the history of a property, including past water intrusion, leaks, or floods, is essential. Our initial consultation process involves a detailed discussion about your property's history.
Mold Life Cycle: From Spores to Contamination
Mold goes through a life cycle, dispersing spores and fragments. Certain mold species produce chemicals, creating another form of contamination. As molds break down, particle matter becomes microscopic.
Mold Species Matters: Not All Molds Are Created Equal
The assumption that indoor and outdoor molds are the same can be misleading. Different species have different properties, and some can produce potent mycotoxins. We may request additional sampling to determine the specific mold settlement in your property.
Dispersion in the Home: Understanding the Spread of Contaminants
Molds, their spores and their mycotoxins disperse throughout a home at a microscopic level. The entire home can become contaminated, affecting indoor air quality and your health. Some people are seemingly unaffected, while others can suffer a wide-range of health effects. Dust harbors spores, fragments, and toxins, leading to exposure when disturbed.
HVAC Systems: The Lungs of Your Home
Understanding that a home functions as a living, breathing system is essential. Air movement and pressurization play a significant role in distributing contaminants. The HVAC system acts as the home's "lungs," making its proper maintenance crucial to maintaining indoor air quality.
Heating and air conditioning systems (HVAC) can carry contaminants into the system. Moisture on HVAC coils can promote mold and bacteria growth. HVAC systems redistribute contaminants throughout the home. Often, when remediating a home after a flood event involving fungal contamination, remediators, owners, workers, property managers, and homeowners associations completely ignore the HVAC system which has likely been contaminated.
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Understanding mold exposure is essential for your health and safety. If you suspect mold-related issues in your property, we can help. With our extensive experience as personal injury attorneys, we can guide you through the legal process to seek compensation for mold-related health problems and habitability issues.
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If you or a loved one is grappling with the effects of toxic mold exposure, Wet Building Syndrome, or other uninhabitability issues, know that legal pathways exist to seek redress. Our firm stands ready to assist, providing unparalleled expert representation.
Individualized impacts and reactions
A unique aspect of cases involving toxic exposures or uninhabitability is the range of individual reactions. People can be affected differently by the same exposure, with some experiencing minor discomforts while others face severe health complications. Recognizing and addressing these personalized impacts is crucial in our advocacy.
Potential compensation in uninhabitability claims
Victims of toxic mold exposure, Wet Building Syndrome, or breaches of habitability can seek various forms of compensation:
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Retroactive rent abatement - a refund of rent paid during the period the property was uninhabitable.
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Moving and storage costs - covering expenses related to relocating and storing belongings.
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Replacement costs - For property that was damaged or had to be discarded due to mold or other uninhabitability issues.
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Alternative lodging costs - Expenses incurred from seeking temporary accommodations while the primary residence is treated or repaired.
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Medical expenses - both past and projected costs for treatments related to health issues caused by the exposure.
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Attorney's fees recovery - in some cases, victims can seek reimbursement for legal fees. When faced with potentially life-altering consequences of toxic mold exposure or Wet Building Syndrome, don't settle for any representation. Our reputation is built on our unwavering commitment to our clients.
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Preserving Evidence in Your Habitability/Mold Exposure Case:
If you find yourself in a situation where you suspect a habitability/mold exposure issue in your living space, it's crucial to take the right steps to preserve evidence that can support your case. Here, we provide comprehensive guidance with more details on how to proceed:
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1. Thorough Documentation of Property Issues:
Begin by meticulously documenting any signs of water damage, leaks, fungal growth, water staining, rusty pipes, broken plumbing, makeshift repairs, breaches in the building exterior or roof, and any visible problems related to moisture intrusion and mold. Take numerous high-quality photos and videos, making sure to capture details, dates, and locations. This visual evidence will be invaluable in demonstrating the extent of the problem.
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2. Engage a Qualified Inspector for Environmental Sampling:
To establish the extent of mold contamination and its impact on your living environment, it's essential to hire a qualified inspector. Look for professionals with expertise in microbial assessment or certified industrial hygienists. During the inspection, inquire about obtaining various types of samples beyond just air samples. Swab, bulk, or tape lift samples can provide a more comprehensive picture of the mold issue.
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3. Communicate Inspection Findings to Your Landlord and Request Repairs:
Once you receive the inspector's report, promptly share it with your HOA, landlord or property management company. Clearly communicate the findings and recommendations of the inspector. Request that they initiate necessary repairs and mold remediation work as indicated by the inspection. Stress the importance of hiring a licensed mold remediation company for this task, as mold issues require professional expertise for proper resolution. Often, landlords and property managers attempt to minimize the issue, and will act as if the tenant or person affected is being irrational, unreasonable and is overly concerned about the issue. Remember, using professionals and doing the job right is more expensive for them, time consuming, difficult and may uncover evidence a more extensive problem. For these reasons, owners and managers often try to go the “quick and dirty” route, ripping out damp building materials without proper expertise and without concern for spreading microscopic fungal fragments and articles all over the living space.
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4. Emphasize Containment Measures During Repairs:
Insist on stringent containment measures while mold remediation is in progress. This includes sealing off the work area with ceiling-to-floor 6mm plastic sheets to prevent cross-contamination to the rest of your home. The containment area should be equipped with a dehumidifier and HEPA filter to maintain air quality. Negative pressure within the workspace is essential to ensure that contaminated materials do not escape into other areas. Proper containment safeguards against the inadvertent exacerbation of mold problems during repairs.
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5. Demand Thorough Clearance Testing:
Before considering the mold issue fully resolved, it's imperative to request thorough clearance testing. Do not accept clearance based solely on samples taken inside the containment area. To ensure the effectiveness of the remediation, insist on multiple air samples, both inside and outside the containment zone. This comprehensive testing will confirm that the mold problem has been adequately addressed, providing peace of mind for your safety and health.
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6. Seek Medical Evaluation from Knowledgeable Specialists:
If you suspect that mold exposure has had adverse health effects, it's essential to consult with healthcare professionals well-versed in the relevant medical literature from the past 10-15 years. Mold exposure can affect individuals with and without allergies, and there is substantial evidence linking it to various health issues. Consider consulting immunologists, environmental medicine specialists, or internal medicine doctors in addition to or instead of allergists for a more comprehensive evaluation.
By diligently following these steps and paying close attention to detail, you can build a strong case in a habitability/mold exposure dispute. Your well-being and legal rights are of utmost importance, and Strongin, LLP is ready to provide you with expert legal guidance and representation throughout this process.
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Our Dedication to Victims of Mold Exposure and Uninhabitability Claims
When faced with potentially life-altering consequences of toxic mold exposure or Wet Building Syndrome, don't settle for any representation. Our reputation is built on our unwavering commitment to our clients.
SUPERB REPRESENTATION! To the point Crystal Clear representation with great results best choice i ever made was to contact Eric. I emailed him and within minutes he returned my call, He represented me in a Bad Faith case and couldn't be happier with the result. If you're in need of Aggressive, Honest representation, Eric Strongin is your SUPER LAWYER!!!
-- Salvador
Best attorney experience imaginable. Simply put I have never had, or heard of, such a thoroughly positive attorney/client experience. I was provided outstanding and tireless advice and representation. Every step of the process was explained in detail and to my total understanding. I especially appreciated the ability to reach Eric directly by phone or e-mail. In those rare instances when it was necessary to leave a message I always received a prompt and comprehensive reply. Based on my experience I would not hesitate to recommend the legal advise and services of Eric Strongin.
-- Hugh
I have found Strongin, LLP to be attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and easy to work with. In particular, Kseniya Stupak has provided me with knowledge and professional service and has kept me up to speed throughout my legal journey. I highly recommend contacting Strongin, LLP and requesting Kseniya Stupak for all of your legal needs.
-- Erin
