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A former Fort Cavazos family received a $10.3 million award in economic and mental anguish damages for mold exposure in Fort Cavazos military housing.
This decision came after it was revealed that their landlords had concealed evidence of mold in their home. The property management company, Fort Hood Family Housing, now known as Cavalry Family Housing, and its parent company, LendLease, were held responsible for the damages in an arbitration panel’s interim award.
The Kiernans’ Struggle with Mold
In 2018, the Kiernan family was stationed at Fort Cavazos, then known as Fort Hood. By 2019, they began experiencing adverse health effects from long-term mold exposure. The wife voiced her concerns during a town hall event hosted by the post’s leadership in June of that year.
Their baby had been consistently sick, initially diagnosed with common colds and viruses. The infant had been hospitalized multiple times for respiratory issues, even requiring a life flight to Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin for emergency medical care. The severity of the situation became evident when their 4-year-old fell through a wall, exposing mold inside.
Legal Action and Arbitration
In 2020, the Kiernans, along with eight other families living on LendLease military properties, filed a complaint in the U.S. Federal Court. They alleged that the company had “systematically undermaintained the houses located at Fort Hood, subjecting tenant families to deplorable conditions, including pervasive mold and other airborne toxins.”
The American Arbitration Association (AAA) panel found that the company exhibited a “lack of care or concern for families living in military housing.”
The AAA ordered Fort Hood Family Housing LP, and LendLease to pay the Kiernans for the following:
- Economic damages
- Mental anguish
- Attorney’s fees
- Pre-judgement interest
Evidence showed that employees knowingly hid construction flaws and used deceptive practices to cover up mold references in the housing walls.
Efforts to Improve Military Housing
The issue of substandard military housing has been a concern for leaders, from unit commanders at Fort Cavazos to top Army officials and Congress members. In June 2023, Cavalry Family Housing and LendLease began relocating residents to Heritage Heights, a $1 billion housing development, following extensive renovations and new construction in other Fort Cavazos neighborhoods.
During a visit to the post in January, Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth addressed the issue.
“I hope that families are starting to see more responsiveness and, frankly, a more customer-friendly attitude,” she said. Wormuth also expressed hope for an increase in the annual government spending on military housing in the next presidential budget.
The Importance of Legal Assistance
The Kiernans’ case underscores the critical need for legal assistance in situations involving housing neglect and health hazards like mold. The legal process can be daunting, especially when dealing with large property management companies and complex arbitration procedures. However, experienced lawyers can provide essential support, ensuring that families receive the compensation and justice they deserve.
If you or someone you know is experiencing similar issues with mold in Fort Cavazos housing, it is vital to seek legal help. A knowledgeable mold attorney can guide you through the process, helping to protect your rights and health.
By contacting a lawyer experienced in housing and mold cases, you can ensure that your family’s health and well-being are safeguarded. The Carlson Law Firm is a Veteran Owned & Operated law firm here to help by providing the compassionate legal guidance needed to navigate these challenging situations.
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