TS: Family Waits Years For a Class Action Settlement

The siding on Yulander Smith`s Marhall, Texas mobile home is quickly falling apart. The home`s hardwood siding is defective. However, Smith is not the only homeowner with that problem. A class action lawsuit was filed and the manufacturer was ordered to pay damages to affected homeowners. Three years ago, Smith says Carsi, a Texas based company, offered to collect Yulander`s share of the settlement. The company recieved the money more than a year ago, yet Smith hasn`t seen a dime. "I`ve spoken to several people at Carsi and all I am getting is the run around," Smith said. A Carsi representative inspected the home about three years ago and since then, Smith says the damage has gotten worse. The siding is ripping away due to water and mold damage. However, Smith can not make any repairs until she recieves her share of the settlement. "I`m still scared because I don`t know if I`m laying in bed and my walls are going to fall in," Smith said. Smith and her family might not have to wait much longer. The KTAL Troubleshooters contacted Carsi and the company has agreed to send her a check for $700 immediately. Smith could even be entitled to at least $200 once she purchases the siding. But, after many unreturned phone calls, the single mother says she is not impressed. Still, she hopes this will be the end of a dangerous waiting game that she says has gone on far too long.