Defective Chinese drywall cases to be heard in Palm Beach County

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla - Like so many transplants from the Northeast, Barry & Barbara Tutin built their Delray Beach home to retire in.

But rest and relaxation has been clouded by anger and frustration.

The Bostonians believe their home was built with defective Chinese drywall. Coils from the air conditioner have been replaced five times since they moved in 9 years ago. Barbara's silver jewelry turned black, so did her favorite sterling silver candlesticks. The copper wire underneath her sink-- is less bronze and more black.

"It's scary. I can get angry, fearful, upset," she said.

Last year, the Tutins joined a federal lawsuit against the builder, Centerline Homes. They knew their case could take years to go through the federal courts.

But years may now be just months away. On Wednesday, Circuit Court Judge Glenn Kelley gave the green light to allow Palm Beach County homeowners, who believe their homes are contaminated with the sulfur-emitting material, to get their cases heard in Palm Beach County.

The move will expedite the process and bring justice to homeowners sooner rather than later, says the Tutin's attorney, David Durkee.

"These folks are living in a toxic environment. Their prospective property is being damaged on a daily basis. Some are moving out of their homes, some are losing their homes. Every day that goes by,damage is done," he said.

The ruling will impact at least 74 cases which are now pending.

"I'm ready I want this settled once and for all, enough is enough," said Tutin.