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: September 18, 2018
Room 101
- The room is serviced by a unit ventilator.
- No mold odors were observed during the assessment (early morning, pre and post HVAC operation).
- No mold growth was observed on surfaces (desks, chairs, etc.).
- No elevated moisture readings were detected in the carpet.
- No thermal anomalies (indicating elevated moisture) were detected within the space.
- Areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed and were acceptable.
- Pooled water was observed on the window stools. It had rained prior to the visit.
- The room's unit ventilator was assessed and appeared slightly dirty.
- Ponded water was observed along the exterior wall, outside of the room.
Room 103
- The room is serviced by a unit ventilator.
- No mold odors were observed during the assessment (early morning, pre and post HVAC operation).
- No mold growth was observed on surfaces (desks, chairs, etc.).
- No elevated moisture readings were detected in the carpet.
- No thermal anomalies (indicating elevated moisture) were detected within the space.
- Areas above the drop-ceiling were assessed and were acceptable.
- Pooled water was observed on the window stools. It had rained prior to the visit.
- The room's unit ventilator was assessed and was acceptable.
The weather at the time of the complaint was between 68 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and 73 degrees F with humidity between 90 and 100%. Humid/musty odors are often detected under these conditions because the unit ventilator does not need to condition the air before introducing it to the space. This is because the temperature set point is already satisfied (usually around 72 degrees F) by the outside air temperature.
Additionally, given that windows in two of the rooms appeared to be leaking, several other windows were assessed. Room 102's window was also leaking.
A work order was submitted for Building Services to address the leaking windows in Rooms 101, 102, and 103.
Building Maintenance (Grounds) added soil/re-graded the area outside of Room 101.
Building Maintenance (HVAC) cleaned the unit ventilator that services Room 101.
While onsite, a precautionary cleaning of the unit ventilators in Room 102 and Room 103 was also completed.