Drywall Information Center Launched by CPSC
Homeowners and consumers have a new online resource for updates and assistance with the tainted drywall problem that's been grabbing headlines in recent months, with widespread reports of damage to homes and fears of health problems linked to the building materials.
The new Drywall Information Center from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) features updates on the CPSC drywall investigation, instructions for homeowners who may be affected by tainted drywall, and answers to frequently asked questions on tainted drywall.
According to CPSC figures, at least 365 residents in 18 States and the District of Columbia blame health symptoms and/or corrosion damage on drywall that was manufactured in China and is believed to be contaminated.
Earlier this month, EPA testing of a small sample of China-manufactured drywall revealed chemicals at higher levels than those found in U.S.-manufactured drywall, and the use of sulfur compounds which aren't used at all in the domestically-produced building materials, though it's too soon to say whether the differences in chemical composition could be to blame for health problems and home damage.
In April, investigation revealed that the tainted drywall could be impacting tens of thousands of houses that have been rebuilt in the Gulf Coast in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and Lousiana Governor Bobby Jindal asked federal safety offiicals to help the state conduct testing and assess the extent of health hazards for homeowners and families.
- New Online Drywall Information Center (CPSC.gov)
- Chinese Drywall Contains High Levels of Chemicals, EPA Testing Finds (FindLaw's Injured)
- Contaminated Drywall Found in Rebuilt Katrina Homes (FindLaw's Injured)
- Health and Safety in the Home (FindLaw)
- Personal Injuries from Dangerous or Defective Products (provided by Weinstein, Chase, Messinger & Peters)