Landlord sued after property diagnosed with 'sick building syndrome'

NEW ORLEANS – A New Orleans woman filed suit against her landlord after high levels of toxic mold were allegedly discovered in the apartment where she had resided for almost a year.

Elizabeth Hood filed suit against ABB Properties LLC in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court on August 6.

From Sept. 1, 2012 to July 14, 2013, the plaintiff lived in an apartment rented from the defendant on Baudin Street in New Orleans, according to the suit. On July 13, she allegedly discovered that the property was contaminated with very high concentration of toxic molds Penicillium-Aspergillus and Strachybotrys, constituting what is commonly known as “sick building syndrome.”

The property was inspected by Driskill Environmental Consultants, who allegedly found that the mold was at such high levels so as to present a risk of serious and long-term adverse health affects. The plaintiff claims she has experienced symptoms of asthma, coughing, wheezing, runny nose, irritated eyes and throat, skin rash and diarrhea.  Hood asserts doctors have also found mold growing in her lungs and she has coughed blood and other blackish material.

The defendant is accused of breaching its duty to provide the plaintiff with a safe living environment.

The plaintiff seeks an unspecified amount in damages for personal injuries, medical costs, lost income, housing and all incurred costs and expenses.

The plaintiff is represented by James F. Willeford of Willeford Law Firm in New Orleans.

The case has been assigned to Division F Judge Christopher J. Bruno.

Case no. 2013-07362.