Newer Homes May Contain Defective Chinese Drywall

The controversy surrounding what investigators are calling defective Chinese drywall continues to unfold as more discoveries are made. Many homeowners are concerned that their residence may be contaminated with the allegedly toxic Chinese drywall, which has been implicated in respiratory problems as well as fatigue, headaches, and vision problems. News reports continue to add more information to this developing story, adding additional resources for residents and homeowners who may be affected.

The discussion revolves around several factors, mainly the main source of contamination of tainted Chinese drywall. Allegedly manufactured in gypsum mines in China, the drywall is thought to be contaminated with fly ash, a waste product from coal when it is burned. Despite several different investigations, it is not presently clear what is causing the noxious gases to emanate from the walls. The contaminated drywall is suspected of leaking dangerous sulfur gases, identified by their corrosive properties. Most homeowners have investigated their air conditioning coils, normally constructed from copper, for corrosion. Other tell-tale signs include corrosion on copper wiring in electrical sockets and tarnishing of antique silver.

Chinese officials have seemingly validated recent claims of defective Chinese Drywall by sending a delegation from China's General Administration for Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ), an national administrative organization in charge of national quality standards, among other things.

While it is not currently known what the long term health effects of exposure to sulfur gases is, many homeowners living with contaminated Chinese drywall report a wide range of health concerns: eye irritation, sore throat, stuffy nose, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, nausea and headaches. The Department of Health in Florida has delegated the responsibility of pursuing this issue further to a team of scientists and toxicologists. The commissioned tests will take air samples to provide empirical evidence of harmful gases. The total cost is expected to be approximately $50,000.

While over 20 other states are represented in claims of defective Chinese drywall, Florida is the most heavily represented. The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) has received approximately 600 complaints from people in 19 states and the District of Columbia, with over 75% of claims coming from Florida. Other states where reports filed with the CPSC have originated include Louisiana, Virginia, Alabama, Arizona, California, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

If the allegations are true, there could be serious health risks for those living in houses contaminated with toxic Chinese drywall. Several homeowners and residents of homes potentially contaminated with defective Chinese drywall have started to pursue a Chinese drywall class action lawsuit through a Chinese drywall attorney. Many lawsuits concerning Chinese drywall problems have been scheduled to be heard in several districts. Some of these Chinese drywall lawsuits have named the home builder Lennar Corp. as the defendant, prompting others to contact a Chinese drywall attorney in order to protect their investments.