In a gripping legal battle unfolding in Palm Beach, Florida, a local resident is taking on two property management companies over severe health issues allegedly caused by mold exposure. On February 11, 2025, Schella Polynice filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the 157th Judicial Circuit against Sapphire Belle, LLC and Pennmark West Palm, LLC.
The lawsuit stems from Polynice's residency at 39B Prewitt Village in Belle Glade, Florida, where she claims to have suffered significant health problems due to toxic mold infestation. According to the complaint, Polynice began experiencing symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and trouble breathing around January 21, 2024. Despite multiple visits to Lakeside Hospital for these ailments and notifying the defendants through maintenance requests and certified letters about the hazardous conditions since September 2024, no corrective action was taken by either company.
Polynice accuses both Sapphire Belle and Pennmark West Palm of negligence for failing to maintain her residence in a safe and habitable condition. The plaintiff argues that this negligence resulted in prolonged exposure to harmful mold spores, leading to bodily injury, pain and suffering, disability, mental anguish, emotional distress, medical expenses, and loss of earnings. "These losses are continuing and permanent in nature," the complaint states.
The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $50,000 from each defendant along with other reliefs under Florida law. Polynice is demanding a jury trial on all issues presented in her case against the property owners. Her attorney Brett L. Schlacter of Schlacter Law has emphasized that his client will continue to suffer damages into the future unless justice is served.
This case highlights critical issues surrounding tenant rights and landlord responsibilities regarding property maintenance standards aimed at ensuring tenant safety from environmental hazards like mold infestations—a concern not only affecting physical health but also quality of life for residents involved.
Representing Schella Polynice is attorney Brett L. Schlacter from Schlacter Law based out of Bay Harbor Islands.The Case Number: 502025CA001234XXXAMB Div: AA.