Drywall aid not a FEMA matter

Just days after Florida asked the federal government for disaster relief for homeowners affected by tainted drywall, the state received an answer: No.

The drywall problem does not meet the federal criteria to be an emergency or major disaster, according to a letter received Tuesday from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“Conditions experienced by individuals from a consumer product safety matter, such as the degradation of imported drywall, does not constitute an emergency or major disaster incident, as contemplated under the Stafford Act,” the letter said.

Late last week, David Halstead, interim director for the Florida Division of Emergency Management, asked FEMA to conduct a preliminary damage assessment and provide financial assistance to those with bad drywall. The letter, at the request of Gov. Charlie Crist, was a first step in seeking financial aid for homeowners.

“We have received the letter from FEMA and are presently reviewing it, and will continue to explore avenues for assistance,” said Lauren McKeague, a spokeswoman for the Division of Emergency Management.

FEMA also suggested that the state contact the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which already is looking into the problematic building material.

Homeowners contend the drywall emits sulfuric gases that cause a rotten-egg stench, possible health problems and corrosion of air-conditioner coils, appliances and electrical wiring. Most of the tainted drywall appears to be Chinese-made. However, some homeowners have recently complained of similar problems with domestic drywall.

Experts have said as many as 100,000 homes nationwide, built from 2004 to 2007, have the tainted drywall. Builders have estimated that replacing drywall and appliances can cost about $100,000 a home.

Some builders agreed to do the work for homeowners, and others have not, leaving many owners in a bind because homeowners’ insurance policies don’t cover the tainted drywall.

Copyright © 2010 Tampa Tribune, Fla., Shannon Behnken.