Unexplained Odors & Chemical Sources
Can't Find the Source of an Odor in Your Home or Building?
Unusual odors can originate from building materials, underground utilities, HVAC systems, chemical products, combustion sources, attached garages and sources outside the occupied space. Sometimes the source isn't where the odor is strongest. A contaminant can travel through wall cavities, utility penetrations, trenches, HVAC systems or pressure differences within the building.
I investigate what is it and where is it coming from?
Relevant case stuides include:
A Gas Leak No One Could Find for More Than Two Years
A hotel spa had an intermittent problem that two utility-company visits had failed to locate. The source was outside the building, with an unexpected pathway through the utility infrastructure.
The Fire-Suppression System Was Leaking. No One Could Find Where.
VOC testing repeatedly identified a compound associated with the system even though neither targeted leak detection nor the manufacturer's technician could locate the physical leak.
Why Did a House Smell Like Roofing Materials When It Got Hot?
Indoor-air and material testing were used to compare the chemical signatures of a new roofing assembly with petroleum-related VOCs detected indoors.