What do we know about defective Chinese drywall?

According to a report by News-Press.com, 250 million feet of defective drywall came into the US from China through ports in California, Washington, New York, New Jersey, and Florida.

The Florida Health Department has received 100 complaints about drywall that is producing a rotten-egg smell. Some homeowners are complaining that the fumes are causing air conditioning coils and other metals to corrode.

A report by America's Watchdog said its environmental testing has found defective drywall in 41 states. In addition to Florida, those states also include Virginia, California, Arizona, Nevada, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Texas.

America's Watchdog reports that the material was first introduced to the US in late 2000 or early 2001 and was primarily used in new US subdivisions, condominiums or home remodeling jobs.

Reported Effects of Chinese Drywall

America's Watchdog believes the Chinese drywall was likely used in the Deep South, the Midwest, the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest, including Vancouver, British Columbia, and even Hawaii. The consumer advocacy group is urging people who live in these areas be aware of the signs that defective Chinese drywall was used in their home. These include:

Reported Health Issues

It's important to take note if the following symptoms disappear when you, your loved ones, or your renters go on vacation, or leave the home for a few days.

Coughing
Irritated eyes
Sneezing
Sinus problems
Sore throat
Asthma
Difficulty breathing
Headaches
Bloody nose
Dizziness
Nausea
and other severe medical indications

Reported Home Issues

Homes built with Chinese drywall may have a slight or strong sulfur-like (rotten egg) or even acid-type (ammonia) odor. The fumes may cause the following damage to your home's pipes, wiring, and appliances:

Corrosion of copper pipes and water lines
Corrosion of electrical wiring
Failing air conditioner coils
Corrosion of stoves, microwaves, washing machines, and other appliances
Tarnishing of metal faucets and flatware (chrome, brass, copper, or silver)

What should I do if my home contains Chinese drywall?

Contacting your builder directly with your findings and concerns is a good first step. They may work with you to repair the damage the defective drywall may have already caused to your home.

While the investigations are currently ongoing, insurance companies and builders may try to delay removing the drywall.

Don't allow your health and home to deteriorate because of someone else's negligence!

If you believe your home may have been built or remodeled with defective Chinese drywall, contact an experienced product liability attorney to learn about your rights.

Thomas M. Kiley & Associates will evaluate your Chinese drywall case for FREE. We will protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve for the damages caused to your home. Call our firm today at 1-800-930-8145.

Massachusetts personal injury lawyer, Thomas M. Kiley, is a member of the Massachusetts Bar Association and is a respected member of the American Association for Justice and the Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys.

The personal injury attorneys at the Law Office of Thomas M. Kiley & Associates are dedicated to helping the victims of:

Car, motorcycle, truck, van or bus accident
Single vehicle accidents such as SUV or 15-passenger van rollovers
Pedestrian accidents such as a hit and run
Defective products such as ineffective airbags or seatbelts, prescription drugs with unpublicized side-effects, or hazardous children's toys
Child injury and child abuse such as negligence
Birth injuries such as trauma during labor or cerebral palsy

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