New York, NY: Preliminary approval of four defective Chinese drywall class action lawsuit has been granted by a federal judge, totalling $17.4 million in damages. The class actions include some 10,000 individual lawsuits filed against the makers, importers, homebuilders, developers, contractors and insurers, among others, involved with the infamous sulfurous infested defective drywall.
Builders and environmental consultants began investigating Chinese drywall after reports that the potentially toxic drywall caused unpleasant (rotten egg) odors. According to the Florida Department of Health and US Consumer Product Safety Commission, as of July 30, 2009, twenty-three states have reported 681 cases of health problems and/or metal corrosion associated with Chinese Drywall. Those states hardest hit are Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Virginia, but complaints from Arizona and California are also increasing.
Homeowners faced millions in property damage as a result of the drywall emitting a host of toxic chemicals including sulfide gases, which, in addition to presenting serious health hazards, corroded electrical wiring, plumbing and appliances.
Eligible class members in this latest round of settlements will be notified by mail in February, as well as through advertising in newspapers and other media.
