Chinese Drywall Inspection
Screens for problematic imported drywall linked to corroded wiring and sulfur odor, mainly relevant to homes built 2001–2009.
What We Look For
- ✓Copper wiring condition — checking exposed wiring and outlet connections for blackening or corrosion.
- ✓AC coil inspection — the evaporator coil is a common early indicator, since corrosion often shows there first.
- ✓Sulfur or "rotten egg" odor — noted when present, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.
- ✓Blackened metal fixtures — mirror backing, picture frames, and other silver or copper items can show corrosion.
- ✓Drywall markings — manufacturer stamps on accessible drywall, when visible, checked against known problem manufacturers.
- ✓Construction date context — confirming whether the home falls within the years most associated with imported drywall use.
Why It Matters
During the mid-2000s housing boom and the rebuilding period after several major hurricanes, a shortage of domestic drywall led some builders to use imported drywall, some of which was later found to off-gas sulfur compounds. Over time, this can corrode copper wiring, air conditioning coils, and other metal components, and in some cases produce a noticeable sulfur odor. The issue is most associated with homes built roughly between 2001 and 2009, with the highest concentration around 2006–2007.
If you're buying or already own a home built in this window, an inspection can help confirm whether any of these warning signs are present. Catching corrosion early matters because it can affect electrical safety and HVAC performance well before it becomes obvious to an untrained eye.
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