Toxic HVAC Ducts Attorney

Many apartment buildings and rental properties have old and neglected Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (“HVAC”) ducts that have never been inspected or cleaned out.  Because of this neglect, residents can be exposed to fiberglass, asbestos, mold, dust and other irritants that collect in the ducts and contaminate the breathing space of a home.

Being exposed to these contaminants can lead family members to develop serious health problems that include allergies, asthma, migraines and gastrointestinal problems.  Vulnerable residents with underlying health problems can suffer severe exacerbations that send them to the hospital or the emergency room.

Industry standards require property owners to regularly inspect and clean out HVAC ducts in their buildings.  Failure to do so makes them liable for the harm caused to their tenants.

Shakhnis Law works with a team of experts in the maintenance of HVAC ducts, neurology, allergy, dermatology and mental health to fully document the severe physical and psychological impacts of living with toxic HVAC ducts and to help their clients heal from the trauma of living in a toxic environment.

First Steps to Take to Protect Your Rights

To protect your rights as a tenant you should consider taking the following steps:

1. Call and make a complaint to the Los Angeles Housing Department at (866) 557-RENT and to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health at (888) 700-9995.
2. Call an HVAC technician to inspect your ducts.
3. Take photos and videotape of the ducts and all unhealthy and unsafe living conditions in your home.
4. Make complaints about all of the problems to your landlord or apartment manager in writing and keep a copy.
5. Contact an attorney to review your rights and legal options.