Chinese Drywall Resources for Builders Posted on NAHB.org
Drywall imported from China that was used in home construction in the United States is causing some concern for homeowners and home builders. Home owners have reported foul odors and air conditioning-related problems in homes constructed with some of the drywall imported from China. Additionally, copper components, and certain electrical and plumbing components might have a blackened appearance. It is believed the drywall was imported into the U.S. between 2004 and 2008. Some of this drywall is alleged to contain high levels of sulfur and/or other contaminants, which it is emitting or off-gassing. Governmental agencies are investigating the potential adverse health consequences of exposure to the sulfur gases.
The issue has generated national media attention and spurred legislation in several states. Little is known about the proper methods for investigating and remediating the drywall, which has led to concern for many on how to address the issue. In an effort to shed some light on the issue, NAHB has created a special Web site page to help association members understand the rapidly evolving Chinese drywall issue. The topic has been the subject of much speculation in national headlines, and is causing concern for home owners and home builders.
NAHB’s legal affairs department and building product issues committee worked together to develop a set of Chinese drywall resources — including links to information on current legislation, federal government and state agency resources and other related organizations and research.
NAHB has also developed its own materials to help builders and associations understand the issue and communicate about it with home owners and their members.
The newest resource on the page is an insurance coverage analysis entitled, “Which Contractors Will Be Covered by Their CGL Insurance Policies for Liability Arising Out of Chinese Drywall?”
These resources will be updated frequently as more information and the potential impact on builders is discovered.
The resources are available to NAHB members and affiliated home builders association staff at: www.nahb.org/chinesedrywall.
For more information, contact David Jaffe at 800-368-5242 x8317 or Felicia Watson, x8229.
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