A Williamson County jury awarded $1.06 million to the Wright family after finding Whitestone Crossing Austin LLC negligent in addressing water leaks, mold, and an ant infestation at their Cedar Park apartment complex.
The problems began soon after the family moved in, with water leaking through their doors during storms. Management dismissed the issues, blaming construction flaws and refusing to act. Over time, relentless ant infestations and severe health symptoms linked to mold exposure plagued the family. Testing confirmed their apartment was dangerously contaminated and uninhabitable.
Cory Wright, who worked from home, noticed his sinus issues and swollen glands improved when he traveled for work, prompting the family to connect the dots.
“This wasn’t just negligence—it was blatant disregard for human health,” said the Wright's attorney, Kristina Baehr. “They knew about the mold and did nothing to fix it. Instead, they put another family in the same unit days after the Wrights moved out.”
Baehr, of Just Well Law in Austin, Texas, emphasized the broader implications of the case: “This jury sent a message that landlords who fail to protect tenants will be held accountable. Housing is a basic right, and safety rules exist for a reason.” She added, “The Wrights stood up not just for themselves but for every family that deserves safe housing.”
The Wrights hope their victory will encourage other renters to demand better and hold negligent landlords responsible.
The fight, however, may not be over. If Whitestone Crossing chooses to appeal, the Wright family is prepared to keep battling for justice.
“The Wrights are willing to stay in the game because they want to make sure this doesn’t happen to anybody else,” said Baehr. “This case is about accountability, and they’re committed to seeing it through to the end.”
Read the full article on KUT.