The Chinese drywall scandal has led to multiple lawsuits, including one involving Banner Supply Company of Miami, Florida. A Florida couple, the Seifarts, purchased a $1.67 million home in 2008. One year later, they were forced to move out due to foul, metallic odors and sulfuric gases coming from the drywall installed throughout their home.
This trial is one of the first to start in the drywall scandal, and is being heard by Judge Joseph Farina of Miami-Dade Circuit Court.
In his opening argument, the attorney for the Seifarts alleges that Banner Supply were aware of the problems with the drywall long before the company publicly acknowledged it. Instead of coming clean and attempting to rectify the problems, Banner attempted to cover the issue up.
The Seifarts are seeking to recover damages relating to their home as well as injuries to their children.
“The Seifarts have spent $492,000 to have their home gutted. They are seeking a total award of $705,000 plus jury-designated amounts for loss of enjoyment of the house and diminution in value.â€
The Seifarts believe the defective material caused their children to become ill after living in the home and inhaling the fumes over the course of a year.
The attorney for Banner Supply contends the company had no early knowledge of the defective drywall and that it never attempted to cover anything up. Instead, he believes the responsibility lies with Knaup Plasterboard, the Chinese-based manufacturer that supplied Banner Supply with the defective drywall.
