Chinese Drywall Causing Vacant Homes

Homeowners that have the now infamous Chinese Drywall exposure problem will need vacant homeowners insurance while they are not living in the house, and while the situation is fixed. However, securing vacant home insurance for this situation is not easy, and many carriers will not provide vacant home insurance quotes for homeowners in this situation.

There have been problems reported with certain Chinese drywall shipped into the United States. It is said to emit some sort of gas or odor that can cause health problems for the owner of the home. It all started after hurricane Katrina where, because of the extent of the damage, there was a drywall shortage in the U.S. and drywall had to be shipped over from China. It's unclear if the problem has totally been corrected, and if existing drywall coming from China could contain the same toxic element. The main symptom is a sulfur-like smell and certain respiratory problems that cannot be explained.

People who experience this problem may be forced out of their house, thus they will need vacant homeowners insurance. However, carriers that supply vacant home insurance are fearful of the Chinese drywall problem and many will not provide vacant home insurance coverage.

Also if extensive renovations are anticipated, like ripping out all of the drywall to replace it, many vacant home insurance carriers will not provide coverage, and a builders risk, or contractors policy will be needed.