Are there any “warning signs” that indoor air problems are developing?
Yes. There are a number of indicators that signal the potential presence of indoor air quality problems. The occupants of the building will probably provide the first clues. If they are experiencing headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, sinus congestion, coughing, sneezing, eye/nose/throat irritation, skin irritation, dizziness or nausea with any consistency or regularity, you should have the building evaluated for indoor air problems. Other indicators include visible growth of molds or mildew, or persistent odors from molds or mildew; fumes or other chemical odors; water standing in and around the building or the heating and air conditioning equipment; visible contamination in the outdoor intake of the heating and air conditioning system; or any persistent source of moisture such as leaky roofs or pipes, condensation, or water coming into the building from an outside source.
