Florida DOH Self Test for Corrosive Drywall aka “Chinese Drywall”

The Florida Department of Health developed this self-assessment guide to make it easier for homeowners to determine if their home meets the criteria for a possible case of drywall associated corrosion as specified in our current case definition. These evaluation steps included here are designed to be taken by a homeowner or building trades professional without any special training in materials analysis or environmental sampling. These steps focus on the appearance of discoloration and corrosion of metals consistent with the presence of reduced sulfur gasses. You must be able answer yes to each indicator before you meet the possible case definition. To reach an increased level of confidence that a home suffers from drywall associated corrosion, we recommend materials analysis by trained professionals as described in the case definition.

Beware of Bogus Tests, Inspections or quick fixes for Corrosive Drywall aka “Chinese Drywall”

The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers to be skeptical of anyone trying to sell test kits, inspections, or quick fixes
for problems caused by imported drywall that has turned out to be contaminated. Some owners of homes that were built between 2003 and 2008 using imported drywall have reported a sulfur smell like rotten eggs; deterioration or corrosion of metal components; and health issues such as irritated, itchy eyes and skin, a persistent cough, and headaches. Although the Consumer Product Safety Commission is studying tests and remediation methods for affected homes, no federal agency has approved any of them.