Sick Building Syndrome Testing in Seattle, WA – Indoor Air Quality Investigation
If occupants in a home, office, or commercial building are experiencing symptoms that improve when they leave the space, indoor air quality may be the cause.
This condition is often referred to as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).
At 5 Microns Inc., we provide professional indoor air quality investigations in Seattle to identify environmental factors contributing to occupant discomfort or health concerns.
What Is Sick Building Syndrome?
Sick Building Syndrome describes situations where occupants experience symptoms linked to time spent inside a building, without a clearly identifiable single cause.
Common contributing factors include:
- poor ventilation
- airborne contaminants
- chemical exposure (VOCs)
- mold or moisture issues
- temperature or humidity imbalance
Common Symptoms
Occupants may report:
- headaches
- fatigue
- dizziness
- eye, nose, or throat irritation
- difficulty concentrating
- respiratory discomfort
Symptoms often improve after leaving the building.
Common Causes We Identify
Through testing, we often find:
- elevated VOC levels
- inadequate air exchange
- mold growth or hidden moisture
- particulate matter buildup
- off-gassing from materials or furnishings
Our Investigation Process
We take a structured approach to identify contributing factors.
Step 1: Consultation
We review:
- building history
- occupant complaints
- timeline of symptoms
Step 2: On-Site Assessment
We evaluate:
- ventilation systems
- moisture conditions
- building layout
Step 3: Air & Environmental Testing
Testing may include:
- VOC analysis
- mold air sampling
- particulate measurements
- temperature and humidity readings
Step 4: Reporting & Recommendations
You receive:
- detailed findings
- explanation of contributing factors
- recommendations for next steps
Who Needs Sick Building Syndrome Testing?
- office buildings
- commercial spaces
- property managers
- landlords dealing with tenant complaints
- homeowners experiencing persistent symptoms
Cost of IAQ Investigation
Costs vary depending on building size and scope.
Typical ranges:
- Residential investigations: $400 – $1,500+
- Commercial assessments: varies based on size and complexity
Why Choose 5 Microns Inc.
- Independent environmental testing
- No remediation conflict of interest
- Certified laboratory analysis
- Experience with residential and commercial IAQ investigations
