At Saffren & Weinberg, we have dedicated our practice to representing victims’ rights. Our experienced toxic mold attorneys in Allentown, PA, protect victims and work tirelessly to ensure they get fairly compensated for their damages.
Indoor toxic mold can not only be costly to remediate and repair the structural damages left behind, but it can also be costly to the health of individuals who have been exposed. Landlords and building owners are legally responsible for keeping the premise safe for those who use it. But when an infestation of toxic mold creates an unhealthy environment for residents, visitors, or employees, those who are harmed may be able to hold the property owner liable.
What Kinds of Mold Can Be Found in Indoor Environments?
Many common molds grow indoors, including:
- Cladosporium
- Penicillium
- Aspergillus
- Alternaria
- Stachybotrys
Unfortunately, some common household molds produce toxic chemicals and mycotoxins.
Stachybotrys chartarum and Stachybotrys chlorohalonata, also known as toxic black mold, can flourish in walls, ventilation systems, basements, and crawl spaces, particularly in areas that have experienced water leaks, intrusions, and damage. Black mold can result in poor indoor air quality and is often associated with “sick building syndrome,” requiring removal by a licensed remediation specialist.
How Toxic Mold Harms
Many individuals are unknowingly exposed to toxic mold in their homes, places of work, or other places they frequent.
While mold exposure isn’t an emergency for many people, some molds can trigger allergic conditions such as hay fever and asthma. Other individuals have health issues that create a greater risk for mold-related infections.
Some common symptoms of mold exposure can include:
- Congestion
- Irritation of the nasal passages
- Eye irritation
- Wheezing and trouble breathing
- Coughing
- Fever
- Headaches
- Memory loss
Long-term exposure can lead to more chronic and serious health concerns. Certain mycotoxins have been linked to liver and kidney damage and some forms of cancer.
Mold has the ability to cause serious health issues and also structural issues in a building. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if a mold problem goes unattended too long, it can eat away at the very structure of the building, including floors, walls, roofing, and support beams. Unfortunately, interior molds can go undetected for a long time.
What Causes Toxic Mold?
Mold typically grows where moisture accumulates. Once mold has taken hold, it can quickly grow inside walls and on insulation, drywall, carpet, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, and upholstery. Not only does this cause potential health issues, but it will often require costly mold remediation and, sometimes, extensive structural repairs.
Many factors can cause this mold growth, including:
- Water intrusion
- Improper building maintenance
- Defective building construction
- Shoddy building materials
When mold has been discovered in a building, it will often require professional remediation and damage repair. Homeowners, landlords, and commercial property owners often turn to their insurance to file a claim for these damages. But insurance companies are notorious for denying or delaying toxic mold claims, causing additional damage and health consequences.
If negligence or insurance bad faith is involved, you may be entitled to compensation for costs related to:
- Mold remediation
- Personal property damage and replacement
- Any medical expenses related to your mold exposure
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
At Saffren & Weinberg, our skilled toxic mold attorneys in Allentown, PA, may be able to hold the property owner, landlord, or your insurance company responsible for the damages and health issues that toxic mold exposure has caused you and your family.
Getting the Assistance of an Allentown, PA Toxic Mold Attorney
At Saffren & Weinberg, we represent individuals who have suffered physical and financial harm due to toxic mold exposure or other indoor environmental concerns. Our dedicated toxic mold attorneys in Allentown, are here to help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us at (215) 576-0100 or contact us via our website contact form to schedule a no-cost consultation to discuss your case.
This website is designed to provide only general information. The information presented on this website is not formal legal advice. You should not rely on any general information from any source for making legal decisions. Each legal matter is unique and requires specific attention from a qualified and experienced attorney. Unless a representation agreement has been signed with Saffren & Weinberg, we are not your legal representatives.