James Hardie Class Action - Initial Win for Leaky Home Owner

James Hardie class action – initial win for leaky home owners

The team at Adina Thorn Lawyers has welcomed yesterday’s High Court decision that effectively means they can continue against all the seven James Hardie companies (including the Australian listed company) in the $250 million funded class action. The action alleges that the seven companies were involved in the production and sale of defective cladding.

This decision is only an initial decision, but Adina Thorn Lawyers says it is a positive first step for the approximately 1,000 owners that they act for. The owners have suffered massive repair costs or loss in value and many suffer health problems flowing from weathertighness issues with James Hardie cladding.

“The decision effectively allows the owners to continue against all of the James Hardie companies that the owners claim against, although the claim against the Australian listed company must be narrowed. Overall it is very encouraging for owners.”

The decision also highlights the complex structure of the James Hardie Group of companies. The parent company, listed in Australia and registered in Ireland, effectively remains in the action (but the claim must be narrowed).

“This case highlights the enormous difficulty for owners seeking justice but is very encouraging for them. It also highlights the great need for owners to group together when they dealing with large multinationals that are hugely resourced”.

ENDS

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