Chinese Drywall Litigation and Counseling

What is Chinese Drywall?

In short, the term "Chinese Drywall" (or tainted drywall or wallboard) refers to drywall imported from China from 2001 to 2007 which is emits gases that often create a noxious odor and corrode copper and other metal surfaces, thereby damaging your air conditioner, electrical wiring, copper plumbing, appliances and electronics. Symptoms typically appear in about 24 months, although the time does vary. Corrosion of electrical wiring can hamper the effectiveness of your smoke detection and can create a risk of fire. Chinese drywall is also very friable, which means it is in a state where small particles can easily become dislodged with little friction, thus enabling them to easily enter your lungs. For this reason, even after Chinese drywall is removed, the toxic drywall particulate may remain unless properly removed. To date, there is no approved remediation protocol and, therefore, one should exercise caution before remediating one's home. It is also imperative to preserve evidence in accordance with the attached Order if you wish to pursue a claim.

The attorneys at Shapiro, Blasi, Wasserman & Gora, P.A. are available for consultation and representation in all matters relating to Chinese drywall. Bear in mind, this does not necessarily mean filing a lawsuit. Some developers/builders are willing to work with homeowners; however, it is important to consult with an attorney before entering into any agreement. If settlement is not possible, litigation may be necessary, but each case will be evaluated to determine what type of litigation (e.g., individual, class or mass action) is appropriate for each of our clients based on their specific needs.     

In addition, our firm has a full service real estate practice group and we are available for representation in connection with mortgage forbearances, foreclosure defense and the purchase/sale of property with Chinese drywall. When selling a property with Chinese drywall, a seller may want to consider including a disclaimer and release of claims, and expressly retaining any and all claims which either result from and/or are related to the presence of Chinese Drywall in his/her property.

Contact Allison Grant, Esq. at (561) 477-7800 or agrant@sbwlawfirm.com to discuss your legal rights.