Las Vegas Homes, Chinese Drywall, and Sick Building Syndrome
By Franklin Everett ShawIs your Las Vegas dream home making you sick? You might be a victim of Chinese drywall, a hidden hazard lurking behind the walls of many homes built during the mid-2000s housing boom. This isn’t just about a bad smell; it’s about serious health risks and plummeting property values.
Chinese drywall, imported to the U.S. during a shortage, emits sulfurous gases that corrode metal, damage electronics, and, most importantly, compromise your health. Let’s dive into how to identify, test for, and remediate this problem, specifically tailored for the unique challenges of the Las Vegas desert climate, and explore your legal options in Nevada.
The telltale signs are often subtle at first. Do you notice a persistent “rotten egg” odor, especially when the air conditioning kicks on?
Copper wiring and air conditioning coils turning black and corroding prematurely are strong indicators. Look closely at electrical outlets and appliances.
Do you experience unexplained health issues like persistent coughs, sinus infections, headaches, or eye irritation? These are common symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome linked to Chinese drywall.
DIY testing can provide initial clues. The “copper coupon test” is a simple, inexpensive method.
Purchase several small, clean copper coupons (available online or at electrical supply stores). Place one coupon in a sealed plastic bag with a small sample of drywall from a suspect area (cut a small piece from behind an outlet cover, carefully). Place another coupon in a separate sealed bag as a control.
After a few days, compare the coupons. If the coupon in the bag with the drywall sample shows significant tarnishing or corrosion compared to the control, it suggests the presence of corrosive gases.
Another test involves testing the air. Purchase a home air quality test kit specifically designed to detect sulfur compounds like hydrogen sulfide. Follow the kit’s instructions carefully, and compare the results to acceptable levels.
Remember, DIY tests are preliminary. For definitive confirmation, hire a certified indoor air quality professional to conduct more comprehensive testing. They can collect drywall samples and analyze them in a lab to determine the specific type and concentration of sulfur compounds present.
Remediation in Las Vegas presents unique challenges. The dry desert air can exacerbate the off-gassing process, making the problem worse.
Complete removal of the contaminated drywall is the only truly effective solution. This is a major undertaking, involving gutting the affected areas of your home.
Simply covering up the drywall or applying sealant is not a viable long-term solution. The gases will continue to permeate, causing ongoing health problems and property damage.
Proper ventilation is crucial during and after remediation. Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to remove airborne particles and gases.
Consider installing a whole-house air purification system to maintain good indoor air quality after remediation. This is especially important in Las Vegas, where dust and allergens are prevalent.
Be mindful of the extreme temperatures. Schedule remediation during cooler months to minimize heat stress for workers and prevent further off-gassing due to high temperatures.
Disposing of the contaminated drywall requires special handling. Contact your local waste management authority for guidelines on proper disposal methods.
Nevada law provides legal recourse for homeowners affected by Chinese drywall. You may be able to recover damages for property damage, health expenses, and diminished property value.
Consult with an attorney experienced in construction defect litigation and Sick Building Syndrome cases. They can assess your legal options and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
The Nevada State Contractors Board can provide information on licensed contractors and investigate complaints against contractors who installed the defective drywall.
Document everything meticulously. Keep records of all expenses related to testing, remediation, and medical treatment.
Take photos and videos of the damage and corrosion. Maintain a log of your health symptoms and how they relate to your home environment.
Be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a claim. In Nevada, the statute of limitations for construction defect claims is generally four years from the date of substantial completion of the construction.
Don’t delay seeking legal advice. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of recovering damages.
Navigating the complexities of Chinese drywall remediation and legal claims can be overwhelming. Don’t go it alone.
Connect with other homeowners in Las Vegas who have experienced similar problems. Sharing information and resources can be invaluable.
Several online forums and support groups are dedicated to Chinese drywall issues. These communities can provide emotional support and practical advice.
Protect your health and your investment. Taking proactive steps to identify and remediate Chinese drywall is essential for ensuring a safe and healthy home in Las Vegas.
Remember, ignoring the problem will only make it worse. Act now to protect yourself and your family.