You come home from work to your Townhouse that you purchased in 2005. You notice your house smells a little, er, gamey -- like a rotting egg. Your brass keys are turning black. You've been experiencing computer and appliance failures. It all gives you a headache and a nosebleed. Your eyes become irritated and breathing becomes difficult. You may have a case of TOXIC CHINESE DRYWALL.
Since 2001, suppliers have been importing a common household building material -- drywall -- for China. This drywall it seems emits a sulfur compound that out gasses into the living environment andgives off a sour or "rotten egg" odor. These sulfur compounds quickly corrode a very common metal found in our homes -- copper. Copper is used in wiring, appliances, computers and many other devices.
Florida and Louisiana are the states that seem to have the biggest problems (especially New Orleans after Katrina), but Washington State has been impacted, too.
Properties at risk are:
- Any property built after 2001.
- Condominium projects built after 2001.
- Townhouse projects built after 2001.
- Single family homes, condominiums townhouses or commercial properties remodeled in the US since 2001.
What are the symptoms of Potentially Toxic Chinese Drywall?
- Continuous failures of air conditioning coils or HVAC units beyond normal
- Corrosion in electrical wiring or metals, especially copper and brass.
- Mild to sever upper respiratory problems, nosebleeds, headaches, skin and eye irritation.
Government and consumer agenciesare trying to figure this one out. In the mean time class action lawsuits especially in Florida and Louisiana have started.
To learn more: chinese drywall.com
Certified Chinese Drywall Testing, LLC has developed the only insurable Chinese drywall test.
This test allows homeowners to be guaranteed that their home is free of Chinese drywall. A negative Chinese drywall test result allows the client to purchase a specialty insurance product developed by Certified Chinese Drywall Testing, LLC. This policy is assignable to potential buyers and can provide the peace of mind that makes it possible to sell a home.
Similarly, this insurance serves as a rider to typical homeowners insurance and prevents homeowners insurance companies from dropping or not renewing policies.
These Chinese drywall tests can also be used after remediation to ensure that the work was completed correctly.
visit http://www.certified-chinese-drywall-testing.com for more information.
Posted by: Certified Chinese Drywall Testing | December 20, 2009 at 07:35 PM
Chinese Drywall is a huge issue. Make sure to stay up to date on the latest news!
Posted by: Chinese Drywall | January 03, 2010 at 06:25 PM
Very informative real estate blog. Thanks I have bookmarked this one.
Posted by: Selling My Home | April 16, 2010 at 02:32 AM