Should I Be Concerned About Chinese Drywall?

Simply put, yes, if you are buying in certain known regions. Consult with your real estate agent. At the time of writing, there are still so many unknowns in relation to the long term effects of Chinese Drywall and whether the current remediation protocols in place simply mitigate or eliminate the issue and whether the liability for the homeowners concerned in relation to this problem is fully removed from the home they are purchasing or currently live in.

Chinese Drywall was imported from China between the years of approximately 2001 and 2007, and used extensively in both new construction and remodeling projects, particularly after the storm season of 2004. Homeowners should therefore not assume that because homes are older, that they will not be subject to the effects of Chinese Drywall.

The problem with Chinese Drywall relates to the manufacturing process and the makeup of the drywall itself. The drywall was found to contain extraneous amounts of metals and minerals such as sulfur, iron and strontium. Under certain environmental conditions, typically warm, humid climates, the drywall was found to emit sulfur gases within the homes and buildings it was used on.

The emitted gas not only has a noxious odor but also has the resulting effect of corroding copper and other metal components and damaging systems such as air conditioners, computers, televisions, electrical wiring, plumbing, and more. While many homes have been remediated, the long term effects are still unknown. Potential homeowners should consult with the current owner of the home for a full disclosure in relation to the Chinese Drywall issue(s). Choose an inspector also that can help you during the inspection process by conducting a visual Chinese Drywall Assessment and providing a documented report on the findings of the assessment following the inspection.

Conduct as much research as possible if you know or suspect Chinese Drywall was used and make the right decision in relation to the purchase of your new home or the home you are living in.