Chinese drywall trial postponed

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) - The first Chinese drywall trial was slated to begin Monday, however WAVY.com has learned the trial has been postponed until later this week.

For months, Colleen Stephens suffered in her own home, like dozens of other local families, due to potentially hazardous Chinese drywall. A government agency found the material produces a rotten egg smell from high levels of hydrogen sulfide.

"We're glad they've finally figured out what we've known all along," sighed Stephens when she heard of the Consumer Product Safety Commission report.

Even worse, homeowners said it corrodes electrical wire and ruins appliances. Some claim it even caused health problems.

Help is on its way, as seven local homeowners head to federal trial in New Orleans. The trial is expected to begin either Thursday or Friday.

10 On Your Side started looking into the material nearly a year ago when families called us complaining about the problems they were having inside their homes. This trial could bring what families have been seeking since then: remediation in the form of money to remove the drywall and repair their homes.

Although this suit represents only seven families, it will play an important role in deciding the outcome of future Chinese drywall trials. But a victory in court doesn't mean immediate financial relief.

The defendant in this trial, Taishan Gypsum Co. Ltd., owned by the Chinese government, isn't expected to attend the trial. And, even if the judge decides against the company, there's no way to force them to pay if they decide to ignore the judgment.

Experts say the Chinese government or a manufacturer could step in and settle, but that process could take several more years.

Two legilative bills ( SB 298 and SB 471 ) are currently circulating in the Virginia General Assembly concerning Chinese Drywall. One seeks to prohibit insurance companies from canceling a homeowner's insurance policy due to Chinese drywall. The other seeks penalites against a supplier who knowingly sells or uses defective drywall in the construction, remodeling, or repair of any residential dwelling in Virginia.

Stay with WAVY.com and WAVY News 10 for continuing coverage.