The Cochran Firm Legal Blog

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission received permission from the Chinese government this week to investigate the Luneng mine in Shandong province, thought to be the heart of the Chinese drywall problem. They will also investigate other mines in the area. This is in response to the ongoing health and premises problems homeowners have had as a result of toxic drywall linked to several Chinese companies.

The CPSC estimates that there were over six million sheets of drywall imported into the U.S. that may be toxic. At least three dozen different builders are involved. However, it is the prominent Chinese manufacturer Knauf Plasterboard Tianjin Co. Ltd. that is the focus. Other companies related to this one that are involved are Knauf Plasterboard Wuhu Co. Ltd., Knauf Plasterboard Dongguan Co. Ltd., and the German affiliate, Knauf Gips KG. Many other companies, including Beijing New Building Material PLC, are also involved.

Since the defective drywall story began, and in addition to the 6.2 million sheets of drywall imported, other statistics include:

• 23 states report new homes affected with the toxic drywall
• More than 2000 lawsuits have already been filed against U.S., Chinese, and German companies, as well as distributors, import brokers, builders, installers, and suppliers
• 810 complaints filed with the CPSC
• At least 20 drywall manufacturers may be involved
• Several U.S. federal agencies, including the newly formed 14 member Congressional Contaminated Drywall Caucus led by Rep. Robert Waxler (D-FL) are involved
• Cost to fix the problem will run into the billions of dollars

One of the companies, Knauf Plasterboard Tianjin, alleges they have taken most of the criticism due to their well-known name and the fact they labeled the product correctly. They claim they only account for 20 percent of the drywall and that the gases found in the product do not constitute a health risk.

New homeowners report the smell of rotten eggs, breathing problems including bouts of bronchitis and pneumonia, and skin irritation, as well as appliances, air conditioning and wiring that corrode. Pregnant women are being told to move out of affected homes so that there won't be problems with their unborn children.

This is a serious problem and it doesn't seem like it's going away anytime soon. The point has already been made that, unlike other defective Chinese products that can be recalled virtually immediately, the toxic drywall cannot just be discovered, removed, and then replaced. It is behind walls and ceilings, and has already affected plumbing, wiring, electronic, as well as the health of thousands of people.

If you believe you or your family has been sickened by toxic Chinese drywall in your house, please contact the experienced defective product attorneys at the Cochran Firm for an initial consultation.

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