South Florida homeowners sue over drywall concerns

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Homeowners across the state of Florida plan to sue several South Florida builders and corporations, claiming the drywall in their homes is not only making them sick but destroying their homes.

Melissa Harrell believes her home is making her whole family sick. "I started to see some health symptoms from it. Coughing, sinus issues, drainage, waking up with sore throats," said Harrell.

The Harrell family has been living in their home for only a year. "It seemed like we started having issues right after we moved in. There was sort of a smell in the house that we couldn't get rid of," she said.

People across the state have now started to complain about their homes making them sick.

The Harrells said they have had outlets in their home short out, and they are now suing. "People buy houses for protection and shelter. They're not supposed to buy houses that make them sick," said family attorney Joseph Givner.

According to a class-action lawsuit, the drywall made in China is emitting toxins, which can pose serious health risks. It is also being blamed for corroding electrical wiring and metal pipes in homes.

The attorneys on the case say anyone with a home built between 2004 and 2007 could be affected. "You need to check to make sure your home too is not infected, that your builder too didn't put defective materials in your home," said attorney Mark Blumstein.

Harrell says she just wants a safe home for her family. "I just want to be in a house that I feel safe in and for my family," she said.

According to the lawsuit, the builder of the Harrells' home imported enough Chinese drywall to build 75,000 houses. The Harrells are seeking damages for over $150,000.

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