What You Need to Know About Commercial Indoor Air Quality Issues
20% of Our Clients Are Concerned About Indoor Air Quality — Here’s What You Need to Know
When 20% of our clients list indoor air quality (IAQ) as a top concern during commercial inspections, they’re tapping into one of the most critical (and often overlooked) components of a building’s livability and performance. Whether you're managing a healthcare facility, school, office complex, or retail center, the air your occupants breathe matters more than ever.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
Why indoor air quality matters in commercial buildings
5 common air quality issues we discover during inspections
What our commercial inspection includes regarding IAQ
Practical strategies to improve air quality and occupant health
Let’s clear the air on what property stakeholders need to know—and why it could be costing you more than you think.
Why Indoor Air Quality Is an Increasing Concern
Poor air quality isn’t just about musty smells or allergy complaints—it can impact everything from tenant retention to absenteeism and even building valuation. Here’s why more clients are paying attention:
1. Health and Comfort Depend on It
IAQ directly affects respiratory health, cognitive function, and overall wellness. Mold spores, allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and carbon dioxide buildup can all contribute to illness and discomfort.
2. Post-COVID Awareness Is Higher Than Ever
The pandemic changed how people think about shared air. Clients are now asking whether buildings have enough fresh air, filtration, and ventilation to reduce airborne contaminants.
3. IAQ Affects Productivity
Studies show that poor air quality lowers concentration, increases fatigue, and causes more sick days—especially in offices, classrooms, and call centers.
4. Poor IAQ Signals Deeper Building Problems
Moisture intrusion, HVAC failure, and poor maintenance often show up first in the air. IAQ complaints can be early warning signs of mold, leaks, or mechanical breakdowns.
5 Common Indoor Air Quality Problems in Commercial Buildings
During our inspections, these are the most frequent contributors to poor indoor air quality:
1. Mold and Mildew Growth
Leaks from roofs, windows, HVAC condensate lines, or plumbing can create ideal conditions for mold. We often find growth behind ceiling tiles, on drywall, or in ductwork—sometimes without visible signs until it's advanced.
2. Insufficient Ventilation
Buildings that rely solely on recirculated air can build up carbon dioxide, odors, and humidity. We often find exhaust fans disconnected, makeup air units off, or windows sealed in older buildings.
3. Dirty or Neglected HVAC Systems
Clogged filters, dust-filled returns, and moldy coils are common. Poor HVAC maintenance allows allergens, particulates, and microbial growth to spread throughout the building.
4. Off-Gassing from Materials
New carpet, adhesives, office furniture, and cleaning products release VOCs that degrade air quality. Inadequate ventilation amplifies the problem, especially in newer renovations.
5. Pest-Related Contaminants
Rodent droppings, cockroach husks, and decaying biological materials can introduce allergens and bacteria into the air—especially when hidden above ceilings or in walls.
What Our Commercial Inspection Includes for Indoor Air Quality
While our standard inspection does not include formal air testing or lab analysis, we evaluate factors that influence IAQ and identify red flags that warrant professional attention.
✔ Visual Inspection for Mold and Moisture
We assess ceilings, baseboards, mechanical rooms, and known problem zones for staining, fungal growth, musty odors, and signs of leaks or humidity.
✔ HVAC System Review
We inspect filters, return vents, evaporator coils, drain pans, and ductwork (where visible) for dust buildup, mold, poor sealing, and condensation problems.
✔ Ventilation System Function
We observe whether bathrooms, breakrooms, and utility closets have functioning exhaust systems. Where rooftop air handlers or makeup air units are visible, we note their condition and operation.
✔ Humidity and Moisture Assessment
We use moisture meters and infrared cameras to detect hidden leaks or excess humidity that can contribute to microbial growth.
✔ Occupant Risk Indicators
We note any signs of air stagnation, blocked vents, or areas that are overly humid or musty—especially in closed or windowless areas.
✔ Recommendations and Referrals
If IAQ concerns are evident, we recommend formal testing by certified industrial hygienists or indoor air quality professionals.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Your Commercial Property
Here are practical steps property managers and building owners can take to reduce risk and improve health outcomes:
➤ Upgrade Filtration
Install MERV-13 or higher filters in HVAC systems where compatible. These filters remove finer particulates like pollen, mold spores, and some bacteria.
➤ Monitor Humidity
Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. Install dehumidifiers in damp areas and repair any leaks promptly.
➤ Increase Ventilation
Add fresh air intakes, open operable windows when weather permits, and run HVAC fans continuously to circulate air. Demand-controlled ventilation systems can adjust based on occupancy and CO₂ levels.
➤ Clean Ducts and Equipment Regularly
Schedule professional cleaning of ducts, coils, drain pans, and plenums—especially after renovation or pest activity.
➤ Choose Low-VOC Materials
When replacing carpet, paint, or cabinetry, use low- or zero-VOC materials to reduce chemical off-gassing.
➤ Conduct Periodic IAQ Testing
For higher-risk facilities—such as schools, clinics, or food production spaces—periodic testing of air samples, particulate levels, and CO₂ is a wise investment.
Conclusion: Air You Can’t See Can Still Hurt Your Building and Your Bottom Line
Just because a building looks clean doesn’t mean the air is healthy. Indoor air quality plays a direct role in productivity, tenant retention, employee health, and operational compliance. With 20% of our clients raising IAQ as a concern, it’s time for every building owner to add air quality to their maintenance priorities.
Want Help Identifying Indoor Air Quality Issues?
You can’t see the air your tenants and employees breathe—but its quality directly impacts their health, your reputation, and your bottom line. With 20% of our clients now citing indoor air quality concerns, proactive management has never been more important.
At Focus Building Inspections, we assess your property for the hidden risks that affect air quality—and give you the insights you need to create a healthier, safer environment. Let’s clear the air—because a healthier building is a stronger investment.
Schedule your commercial property inspection or reach out today. We’ll help you spot red flags, protect occupants, and plan for smart, healthy improvements.
Questions This Article Answers
Why is indoor air quality (IAQ) a growing concern for commercial property owners and managers?
How does poor indoor air quality impact health, productivity, and building value?
What factors contribute to poor IAQ in commercial buildings?
What are the five most common indoor air quality issues found during inspections?
How does poor HVAC maintenance contribute to IAQ problems?
What does Focus Building Inspections include in their IAQ evaluations during a commercial inspection?
What practical strategies improve indoor air quality in commercial spaces?
Why is it important to monitor humidity and ventilation performance?
How do materials and furnishings affect indoor air quality through VOC emissions?
When should commercial properties consider formal IAQ testing?
Bibliography / Resources
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. (n.d.). Ventilation and indoor air quality guidelines. ASHRAE. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/indoor-air-quality
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Mold and indoor air quality. CDC. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.cdc.gov/mold/default.htm
Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Indoor air quality in commercial buildings. EPA. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/indoor-air-quality-buildings
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. (n.d.). Indoor air quality resources for inspectors. InterNACHI. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.nachi.org/iaq.htm
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. (n.d.). Indoor environmental quality guidelines. NIOSH. Retrieved April 25, 2025, from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/default.html