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)
Date(s) of Assessment: July 12, 22 and 25, 2019
A stale odor was observed in the room.
The exterior window caulking appeared to be failing.
Mold growth (spotty) was observed on drywall above the drop-ceiling. The mold growth appeared to be associated with a former HVAC pipe that is currently out of use.
The book case contained uncapped HVAC piping from a former unit ventilator.
The bookcase was removed and two pipes were observed. These pipes were open and are presumably connected to the crawl space below. The odor sensed is likely associated with crawl space air migrating through the penetrations into the occupied space.
Several pests/insects were observed while removing the bookcases.
The drywall impacted by mold growth was removed by a board-approved restoration contractor. Additoinally, the area formerly occupied by the bookshelf was vacuumed (High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter), cleaned/disinfected and then vacuumed again by the board-approved contractor to remove insect residue, fecal matter, etc. This work was completed under a negative-pressure containment.
The unused HVAC pipe located above the drop-ceiling was removed. The pipe penatrations in the floor, below the bookcase were sealed. Building Services (Carpentry) discarded the bookcase and is currently in the process of constructing a new bookcase.