BATON ROUGE — A St. Amant couple, Scooter and Blue Reed, appeared before the Louisiana Manufactured Housing Commission this week, hoping for relief after a year of living with mold, moisture problems, and other issues in their mobile home.

The Reeds moved into their new manufactured home one year ago, expecting comfort and stability. Instead, they face persistent issues ranging from moisture around the house's perimeter, roofing and A/C concerns, and soil compaction questions.

"This was supposed to be our forever home," said Scooter Reed.

Their complaints have involved the home's manufacturer and retailer, Southern Energy Homes, now owned by Clayton Homes, and Atchafalaya Homes. 

After a 2 On Your Side investigation brought attention to their case, the State Fire Marshal's Office and all parties involved visited the home in August for an official inspection. The manufacturer and retailer's attorney, Lamont Domingue, told the commission that all items identified in the state inspection report have been addressed and the companies remain committed to working with the Reeds.

Clayton Homes provided the following statement to 2 On Your Side. 

Customer experience is a top priority. All work orders Clayton received for this home from this customer have been completed, including those addressed in the inspection report by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal. The report assigns additional repairs to the parties responsible for the home’s installation. 

However, Scooter and Blue Reed say additional concerns persist. They hired an independent mold inspector, whose findings they shared with the commission. The attorney for the manufacturer and retailer received the inspection report, but disputed the claims, leaving the Reeds feeling frustrated and unheard. 

"We're very disappointed," said Scooter Reed. 

On the advice of their doctor, the Reeds say they moved out of their home two weeks ago. Since then, they report their health has improved significantly, but they can't afford to stay in a hotel forever.

The commission has instructed the Reeds to compile a new list of complaints, which will be shared with all parties. Once those issues are addressed, another inspection will be scheduled by the State Fire Marshal's Office. 

The Reeds remain hopeful for a resolution that will allow them to return to a safe, healthy home.