Mother of three successfully sues landlord over mold in house British News
A mother-of-three who successfully sued her landlord over the toxic mold that was making her family’s life “unbearable” says she looks forward to “finally making our house a home.”
Sara-Jae Gumbley, 36, endured a “living nightmare” for three years, buying up to 20 air fresheners every month in a desperate attempt to cover up the musty smell.
She said the downstairs bathroom was unusable and “looked like it had suffered a major fire” as the walls and ceiling were covered in thick black mold.
That meant Sara-Jae and the children all had to use the upper floor, while the mother, from Eastbourne, East Sussex, added: ‘My youngest has had occasional accidents on the stairs.’ It was awful.’
Despite repeatedly reporting the dire living conditions to Eastbourne Borough Council, Sara-Jae said they had done little to resolve the situation.
She eventually enlisted the help of a law firm specializing in home renovations, which fought her battle in court — and won.
Veritas helped her secure £2,500 in damages and arranged for the City Council to carry out £3,000 worth of work to rectify the problem.
Sara-Jae said, ‘My little one is happy that she can play with her friends now.’ It’s time to make our house a home.’
She said of the problem, “I felt helpless and ashamed.” The mold ruled our lives and the smell was unbearable.
“I tried my best to hide it with all the air fresheners, but deep down I knew it wasn’t a solution.” My children’s health was at risk and I couldn’t stand idly by.
“The children couldn’t bring their friends to visit for fear they might accidentally touch something, not to mention embarrassing the condition of the house.
“The downstairs toilet, which we never got to use, looked like it had suffered a major fire.” It was just black with mold and there was always a puddle on the floor.
“This meant we had to share the upstairs toilet, which was a challenge for four people.” My youngest occasionally had accidents on the stairs. It was terrible.’
She described feeling like she couldn’t have any guests at all – even at Christmas – for fear they might touch something and get sick.
After years of difficulties, the council completed repairs last month. Sara-Jae hopes to use part of the settlement to bring her children to Spain, aged five, eleven and 13.
In counsel to others going through similar harrowing trials, she added, “Don’t suffer in silence.” Take action and get the help you deserve.
“Reach out to organizations that can guide you through the legal process.” “Everyone has the right to a safe and healthy home.”
Eastbourne Borough Council said: “We are committed to ensuring everyone has a place to call home that is safe, decent and truly affordable.”
“We take all issues related to moisture, mold and decay very seriously.”
“Mrs. Gumbley was advised to ensure good ventilation of the property.” “We are pleased that Ms. Gumbley is satisfied with the work done.”
Faraz Fazal, Managing Partner at Veritas Solicitors, said: “This case reinforces our determination to fight substandard living conditions and defend tenants’ rights.”
“It reminds all landlords that it is their fundamental duty to provide safe and livable homes.”
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