During the last five months, RMI recovered $614,974.00 on three spontaneous combustion fires, each in a different part of Ohio, but all involving the same product and fact patterns.
All three fires were initially believed to be related to other causes, but later determined to be the result of improper use of staining products.
Two of the losses were during the final phase of construction projects. All three cases involved Minwax brand staining products. In all instances the manufacturer’s warning and instructions as to proper use and rag disposal were not followed.
The first recovery involved a $204,974.00 settlement in eastern Ohio (Trumbull County) involving an extensive office remodeling project. The settlement was close to the total recoverable loss. Initially, the fire was believed to be related to an electric heater in the origin area. A review of burn patterns, systematic ruling out of an electrical failure, and the evidence of staining being accomplished in another area of the building shifted the focus.
