Mold caused health issues, family says
A Daniel Island family who fled their home after receiving mold test results is suing builder D.R. Horton Inc., alleging negligence resulting in permanent and life- threatening physical injuries...The Allens left their home more than two months ago and have been living in rental housing. Their suit filed Aug. 7 asks the court to award damages sufficient to correct the construction defects, and it seeks damages because of D.R. Horton's alleged refusal to fix the problem.

Mold caused health issues, family says
By PRENTISS FINDLAY
Thursday, August 14, 2008

A Daniel Island family who fled their home after receiving mold test results is suing builder D.R. Horton Inc., alleging negligence resulting in permanent and life- threatening physical injuries.

An attorney for Benjamin and Joy Allen filed the lawsuit in Berkeley County alleging that substandard construction led to water intrusion and mold that seriously affected their health and that of their 3-year-old daughter.

A separate mold-related lawsuit was filed against D.R. Horton last month on behalf of three other families.

The Allens left their home more than two months ago and have been living in rental housing. Their suit filed Aug. 7 asks the court to award damages sufficient to correct the construction defects, and it seeks damages because of D.R. Horton's alleged refusal to fix the problem.

"We definitely want to be reasonable, and we definitely want to work with D.R. Horton toward an amicable compromise solution," Benjamin Allen said.

Attorney Kyle Dillard issued a statement on behalf of D.R. Horton: "D.R. Horton, Inc. previously stated that it would have the Allens' house inspected by a certified industrial hygienist and then offer to perform any work recommended by the hygienist. We have done exactly that. In short, we have asked for a chance to repair the problem, and we have even offered to allow the Allens to approve the contractors that will be used. Nevertheless, the Allens have chosen to reject Horton's offer and deny us the chance to help them get back into their home."

Benjamin Allen said he was open to the company's offer if he can choose a contractor, who along with a professional engineer, will identify work to fully remediate the home according to building codes and current industry standards.

Allen said he and his daughter were diagnosed with asthma, which he attributed to mold.

The suit says that the mold problem has compromised Allen's immune system and exacerbated his multiple sclerosis, which will shorten his life expectancy. His daughter has experienced allergic reactions to mold and fungal growth that will require future medical care, the suit states. The Allens have said their daughter has had a host of illnesses that the family worries are related to the home's air-quality.

Reach Prentiss Findlay at 937-5711 or pfindlay@postand courier.com.

http://www.charleston.net/news/2008/aug/14/mold_caused_health_issues_family_says50787/