INDOOR AIR SERVICES, INC.	P.O. Box 9013 Asheville, NC 28815 Phone: 1.888.333.6367 1.828.299.7103 Fax: 1.828.299.7133
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Testing Equipment & Materials: Home Investigations

FAQs
Questionnaire

The first step in beginning an investigation is to interview the homeowner. There is the need for specific information from the homeowner before an investigation begins. This information will give a background of the day-to-day living arrangements of the household occupants. Without correct answers, the investigation would be of little use to those residing in the house. The information deals with the condition of the house itself along with any damage or remodeling that has transpired. The type of heating and air-conditioning system will also be noted. Most importantly, the ongoing health and age of the occupants is needed to come to a helpful resolution to the problem that is under investigation. In Appendix B is a basic questionnaire defining the questions generally asked of every homeowner.

After the interview, particulate tests will be done throughout the home to get a general idea of the amount of particles in the air (see Visuals of Testing Equipment - photo 1). A particulate test will also be done outside as comparison because generally the outside air has more particles in it. During the particulate testing, an overall assessment of the structure of the home will be done. Any past or present water damage signs will be noted. If there is visible mold growth, the source of the moisture contributing to that mold growth will be checked. This may mean a look in the attic and basement or crawl space. Two tests which can give a picture of airborne contaminants will be used in several areas, generally those where individuals are experiencing health problems and one non-problem area. This will give an excellent overall evaluation of the home at that time. There will also be tests taken on the outside for comparison purposes. The first test is generally taken with the Andersen air-sampling machine (see Visuals of Testing Equipment - photo 3) followed by a Zefon air sampler (see Visuals of Testing Equipment - photo 5). The Andersen air sampling tests will be sent to a lab where they will be incubated for seven days. The growth on the plate will be checked by electron microscope at three days and again on the seventh day. The results will be sent to us with a comment page telling the pathogenicity and quantity of airborne contaminants. The Zefon samples will be checked under a microscope to identify the particles collected. Swab or tape samples may be taken from the air ducts and any visible mold growth. These also will be sent to the lab to be cultured or viewed under a light microscope to determine the contaminant(s).

After the report from the lab is received, a written report containing Indoor Air Services evaluation, the lab report and any recommendations, if necessary, will be faxed, if requested, and another copy mailed to the homeowner. The homeowner may call with any questions about this report, or a home visit can be scheduled to discuss it.

FAQs

1. Is mold dangerous?
Certain molds can effect the health of individuals, especially those with respiratory health problems and individuals who are immuno-compromised.

2. What are the symptoms for mold exposure?
Some symptoms are headaches, lethargy, nose bleed, difficulty in breathing, brain fog, cold or flu-like symptoms.

3. Should I move out of my house?
Generally this is not necessary unless there are some extenuating circumstances, which must be determined in each individual case.

4. What steps can I take to improve the indoor air quality in my home?

5. My child or I have asthma, could mold be affecting our asthma?
Yes. Mold spores are allergens.

6. Should I get my air ducts cleaned?
Are you sure they are dirty? You can check them with a mirror and a flashlight.

7. What kind of filter should I use for my furnace?
Minimum would be a pleated filter such as Filtrete8.

8. Would it help if I had an air cleaner?
It could. You have options of a whole house unit or a room unit.

1. Symptoms or Complaints:

2. Do they occur any particular time of day or night?

3. Health of individuals in home (any chronic illnesses or people on medication) asthma, allergies, chemical sensitivities:

4. Has allergy testing been done? If so note allergens or sensitivities:

5. Children's ages:
    Elderly:

6. Smokers:
    Pets:

7. Pesticide company:

8. Occupation(s):

9. Hobbies:

10. Air Cleaners:

11. Vacuum type & age:
    Allergy free?

12. Type of Heat:

13. A/C:

14. Filter type and size:

15. Air Ducts:
    > Metal
    > Fiberglass (duct board)
    > Flex

16. Age of Home:
    Remodeling?
    If Yes, how long ago?

17. Water Damage (either previous or recent):

18. Visible Mold (where):

19. Odors (where & when):

20. Additional Notes:

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