The housing boom occurring between 2004 and 2006 led many builders and contractors to scramble for construction supplies. As a result, many builders began importing drywall from China in order to accommodate the increase in building needs.
It has recently become apparent that the Chinese drywall used in building and remodeling homes across the country is defective. It contains sulfur compounds that emit foul odors when exposed to heat and humidity. Furthermore, the sulfur gases released from the drywall have caused corrosion of many metal products found in these homes.
Many homeowners have found that their jewelry, metal picture frames, and silverware are tarnishing quickly after being cleaned. Others have experienced electrical problems with televisions, computers, and electrical wiring. Evaporator coils in air conditioners have also been affected, requiring many units to have these coils replaced.
The Florida Department of Health has tested the defective drywall and determined that it does not pose an immediate health threat. However, many homeowners are concerned that this problem will reduce their property values in an already depreciated housing market, making it virtually impossible to sell their homes.
The defective Chinese drywall has been used in 41 states, although the vast majority of complications associated with this defective product have occurred in the southeast, where many homes were either rebuilt or remodeled in recent years after several devastating hurricane seasons. Furthermore, the hot and humid climate in this region makes homes containing Chinese drywall more prone to emit sulfuric gases.
If you have experienced problems in your home as a result of defective Chinese drywall, you should consult an experienced defective construction attorney immediately to ensure that your rights are defended. Your contractor will most likely be responsible for replacing the defective material in your home.
If you have a defective Chinese drywall claim in the West Palm Beach, Florida area, please contact the Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb, P.A. today to schedule a consultation.
