Understanding Premises Liability and Toxic Mold
It's expected that property owners take necessary steps to keep occupants safe by maintaining their property. When they are negligent in their duty, a personal injury attorney can help victims get the compensation they deserve.
Landlords and property owners who allow toxic mold to proliferate their buildings put occupants at risk and could face legal repercussions for their negligence. At Burke Argos, our attorneys help clients get the maximum settlement for damages in premises liability and toxic mold lawsuits in and around Irvine, CA. For help with your case, we invite you to schedule a consultation.
About Toxic Mold
Toxic mold is a term used to describe fungi that produce mycotoxins. One of the most common forms of toxic mold is Stachybotrys chartarum, which is a greenish-black mold commonly called black mold.
Toxic mold may be found in areas of buildings where constant moisture exists, such as areas with water damage, leaks, or walls prone to condensation.
Flooding, leaking pipes, and leaking roofs are a few causes of toxic mold growth. If such problems with a property are not addressed by property owners, they can lead to illness and serious health problems.
Toxic Mold and the Dangers to Health
When toxic mold is present, mold spores can fill the air. Breathing in these spores can lead to health problems for some people, including children. Exposure to toxic mold may result in upper respiratory tract problems including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Those with underlying respiratory issues, such as asthma, lung disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) or those who are immunocompromised may be at greater risk of more severe illness or death when exposed to toxic mold.
Property Owners and Premises Liability
Simply put, premises liability refers to the responsibility of property owners for damages or injuries caused to others stemming from the ownership or possession of their property. This means that property owners are expected to provide a level of maintenance on their property to keep occupants reasonably safe.
When it comes to toxic mold, Irvine property owners have a responsibility to make necessary repairs when the occupant of the property informs them of a mold problem or water-related damage that could lead to mold growth.
When property owners fail to take necessary steps to remedy a mold or structural problem, they may be found negligent in a premises liability lawsuit.
Damages for Premises Liability and Toxic Mold
When a property owner or landlord fails to make repairs or remove toxic mold and illness occurs, it may be possible to recover damages in a premises liability lawsuit.
Medical expenses associated with illness from toxic mold are some of the most common types of damages sought in a premises liability and toxic mold case.
In addition to medical expenses, negligent parties may also be held liable for damages related to repairing or cleaning areas with toxic mold.
Schedule a Consultation with Burke Argos
If you live in or around Irvine and believe toxic mold has made you or a family member sick, you are encouraged to call (949) 438-4416 to schedule a consultation with one of our premises liability attorneys. Our team can review the details of your case to help determine the best step forward for your situation.
