Concern: Ellicott Mills Middle School: August 21st, 2026 (CXEMMS20260003E0)

Location
portable 2
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
My portable is clean, and the custodians have always been wonderful about helping me keep the portable clean. But now it keeps having a smell of super damp and humid, and the ceiling tiles near all the vents have a spread of dark gray that wasn't there in June. Can someone check it is not mold? Thank you kindly.
IEQ Investigation Process

Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:

  • interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
  • inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
  • inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
  • inspection of exterior
  • inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Findings

Date of Assessment: August 28, 2026

The Office of the Environment observed visible mold growth around the supply diffusers and on several pieces of furniture. 

The thermostat was observed to have improper settings, with the fan set to “On” rather than “Auto.”

The mold growth is likely associated with the improper thermostat settings, which may have introduced unconditioned air into the space over an unknown period of time.

Corrective Actions
September 28th, 2026

A board approved restoration contractor cleaned and disinfected impacted surfaces. Areas around the supply diffusers were encapsulated after cleaning out of an abundance of caution. 

Closed
Yes
Tracking Number
CXEMMS20260003E0