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 of Assessment: October 14, 2026
The room consisted of carpet flooring, drywall walls, and a suspended ceiling system with ceiling tiles.
Temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) measurements were collected within the space. All readings were within acceptable ranges at the time of the assessment.
The carpet was evaluated for elevated moisture using a moisture sensor. No elevated moisture levels were detected at the time of the assessment.
An infrared camera was used to evaluate the floors, walls, and ceiling for thermal anomalies potentially indicative of active water intrusion. No such anomalies were identified.
No evidence of active water intrusion or visible mold growth was observed on the surfaces above or below the ceiling tiles.
A nuisance carpet odor was noted within the space. The Office of the Environment is not aware of any health or safety concerns associated with carpet odors. However, the staff member reported that the carpet odor was not the odor of concern.
The space was serviced by Rooftop Unit 10 (RTU-10). The unit's filters were within the acceptable service date range. The coils appeared generally clean, and the outdoor air dampers were open at the time of the assessment.
An apparent roofing replacement project was observed to be in progress. According to staff members, several exhaust fans and return fans had been disconnected during the roofing project and were subsequently repaired.
On October 23, 2026, while investigating a separate concern, the Office of the Environment spoke with staff members working in the vicinity of the conference room. Staff reported that no unusual odors had been noticed since the concern was initially reported on October 8, 2026.
Conclusion
Based on the observations made during the assessment and information provided by staff, the reported odor may have been associated with one or both of the following factors:
- Newly installed roofing materials may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). If the HVAC system was inoperable or its operation was compromised during the roofing project, emissions from the roofing materials may have entered the space through the building's ventilation system.
- Staff reported that several exhaust fans and return fans were disconnected during the roofing project. This disruption may have affected ventilation and odor removal within the space, potentially contributing to the accumulation of odors.
The Office of the Environment requested to be notified if odor is observed again.