Because indoor air quality testing can be expensive, often we recommend conducting a “Phase I” survey first (testing is “Phase II”).  A Phase I survey involves visiting the site, learning of occupant concerns, and inspecting the premises, including the accessible portions of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system.  Often this requires the building occupant to coordinate with building management or facilities personnel.

While many of us wish that there was just one test that could tell us everything we wanted to know about indoor air, unfortunately testing indoor air is not that simple.  Clients have a variety of tests to choose from, which look for specific chemical contaminants, or a range of contaminants.  In addition, clients need to select how many locations are to be tested.  While the more data we gather the better investigation we can perform, economics can often enter into the decision making process.