Chinese Drywall Rulings May Signal Change

More than 7,000 homes in the U.S. have become unlivable due to defective drywall from China and most homeowners have been unable to collect damages against the makers of the material. Now, a recent spate of rulings from federal and district courts could further the cases of thousands of homeowners who await compensation from lawsuits over the problem.

The New York Times reports a federal judge in Louisiana and a state judge in Florida recently ruled that Chinese drywall company Taishan Gypsum can be held accountable for drywall sold in Florida, Louisiana, and Virginia.

Taishan Gypsum has argued that its product was not defective and the company does not fall under federal jurisdiction as the product was sold in the U.S. by other companies.

Although the company is appealing both rulings, lawyers representing homeowners and homebuilders who brought suit over the defective drywall told the Times that the rulings could have broad implications for those who have brought suit.

However, even if homeowners were to win their suits, there is still the question of how to collect damages from the Chinese company.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by an unsafe product, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to find out if a product liability lawyer may be able to help you.

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