Maine Supreme Court Affirms Verdict, Rejects Challenge to Plaintiffs' Medical Expert

AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine's Supreme Judicial Court on Aug. 5 affirmed a $281,299.86 judgment against a mobile home manufacturer, rejecting the manufacturer's challenge to medical testimony linking mold to the buyers' health problems. Searles v. Fleetwood Homes of Pennsylvania, Inc., No. 2005 ME 94 (Maine Sup. Jud. Ct.).

Fleetwood Homes of Pennsylvania appealed from a jury verdict and judgment in favor of Ronald and Debra Searles, who sought rescission and damages after discovering extensive mold in their mobile home.

They blamed the problems on leaking windows. A contractor hired to investigate found mold under the siding, in insulation and …