New Home Nightmare: Family Falls Ill from Toxic Furniture Fumes

Family’s Exciting Move Turns into a Health Nightmare

Moving into a new home should be a joyous occasion, but for one family in Singapore, it quickly became a cause for concern. Song Hongjun, 52, shared his experience after purchasing a spacious 1,615 sq ft condo at Normanton Park in June 2023. After engaging the Far East Service Centre for renovations, the family moved in on March 13, only to face unexpected health issues.

Health Issues on Day One

On their very first day in the new apartment, Song’s eight-year-old daughter started complaining of dry eyes and a sore throat. Soon after, both Song and his wife began experiencing similar symptoms. After two weeks of losing her voice, Song’s wife visited a doctor, who suspected formaldehyde poisoning. This colourless chemical, commonly found in furniture adhesives and paints, can cause irritation and, with long-term exposure, may even lead to cancer.

Testing for Formaldehyde

Following medical advice, Song contacted the interior design company. They conducted tests for formaldehyde and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) in the home on April 2. According to Singapore’s indoor air quality standards, formaldehyde levels should be below 0.08ppm. Shockingly, out of 36 furniture pieces tested, only five met this standard. One drawer in Song’s five-year-old son’s room had a staggering formaldehyde level of 4.8ppm—60 times the acceptable limit.

Ongoing Concerns and Unresolved Issues

Despite two attempts by Far East Service Centre to address the formaldehyde problem, the family continued to experience health issues. Song raised concerns about the safety of the treatment spray used by the company. Although the company offered to cover temporary accommodation costs, the amount was insufficient for a decent hotel, leaving the family feeling unsatisfied. Communication broke down on April 30, leaving them in a difficult situation.

For nearly three months, the family had no choice but to sleep on the floor of their living room. To combat the formaldehyde effects, they purchased two air purifiers and kept the windows open. Initially, they had planned for Song’s elderly father to live with them, but the ongoing health risks made that impossible.

Seeking Legal Action

With the renovation company unresponsive, Song sought legal advice and sent a lawyer’s letter. The company eventually agreed to waive the $7,800 balance payment and offered $23,000 as compensation, but Song found this inadequate given the $33,000 spent on furniture and additional expenses. On June 10, he hired movers to clear all furniture from their home and plans to take legal action against the renovation company.

Far East Service Centre stated they complied with industry regulations when contacted by the news source.

What Homeowners Can Do

This incident serves as a wake-up call for homeowners to be vigilant about the materials used in their homes. Here are some tips to ensure a safe living environment:

– **Conduct Regular Inspections**: Check for hazards like mold, faulty wiring, and other potential risks.
– **Consult Professionals**: Seek advice from home safety experts for a thorough assessment.
– **Research and Educate**: Use online resources or attend workshops to stay informed about home safety.

For more information on indoor air quality and safety standards, visit the National Environment Agency’s website.

By taking proactive steps, homeowners can protect their families and ensure a healthy living space.