FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Building Biology, and how does it differ from other environmental consulting services?

Building Biology is a holistic approach to creating healthy and sustainable indoor environments. It focuses on the interaction between buildings and the people who occupy them, addressing issues like air quality, electromagnetic fields (EMFs), mold, and building materials. Unlike other environmental consulting services, Building Biology considers the biological and ecological impacts of building design, construction, and operation on human health and well-being.

Why should I hire a Building Biology Environmental Consultant?

A Building Biology Consultant specializes in identifying environmental hazards in your home or workplace that can affect your health. By addressing issues such as air quality, EMF exposure, and mold, they help create a safer, healthier environment, reducing your risk of health problems associated with these factors.

How can Building Biology principles improve my home’s health and safety?

Building Biology principles focus on reducing exposure to harmful substances and improving the overall quality of your indoor environment. This includes using non-toxic materials, ensuring proper ventilation, reducing EMF exposure, and addressing potential mold issues. Implementing these principles can lead to improved indoor air quality, reduced stress, better sleep, and overall enhanced well-being for all occupants.

What certifications or qualifications do you have as a Building Biology Consultant?

As a certified Building Biology Environmental Consultant, I hold both the BBEC and Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist (EMRS) certifications from the International Institute for Building-Biology & Ecology (IBE). These certifications demonstrate specialized training in assessing and mitigating environmental hazards in built environments.

How long does a typical full home assessment take, and what is involved?

The duration of an assessment varies depending on the size and complexity of the property. Typically, it can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours for a standard home. The assessment involves inspecting the building for potential hazards and sources of mold, EMF levels, water quality, and indoor air quality. After the inspection, we will provide a detailed report with findings and recommendations.

What areas of my home will you inspect?

We will inspect all areas of your home, including bedrooms, living areas, kitchens, bathrooms, basements, attics, and exteriors. The assessment also includes checking ventilation systems, electrical wiring, and any areas where moisture or mold may be present.

How do you determine if a building is “healthy” or “sick”?

A building is considered “healthy” if it meets specific criteria for air quality, EMF levels, moisture control, and the absence of toxic materials. Conversely, a “sick” building may have poor air quality, high EMF levels, mold growth, or the presence of harmful chemicals that can cause health problems for occupants.

Indoor Air Quality

Improving air quality involves several steps: ensuring proper ventilation, using air purifiers, avoiding the use of toxic cleaning products, keeping humidity levels in check, and regularly maintaining HVAC systems. Additionally, choosing low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints and materials can significantly reduce indoor pollutants.

Common indoor air pollutants include VOCs, mold spores, dust mites, pet dander, and combustion byproducts like carbon monoxide. These pollutants can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, headaches, and in severe cases, long-term health problems like asthma or heart disease.

Air quality testing typically includes measuring levels of VOCs, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter, mold spores, and humidity. These tests help identify specific pollutants and their concentrations in your indoor environment.

Choose products that are labeled as low or zero VOC, such as paints, finishes, and cleaning supplies. Increase ventilation when using products that may release VOCs, and consider using an air purifier that can capture VOCs.

Yes, air purifiers can help reduce airborne particles like dust, pollen, and mold spores. Look for purifiers with HEPA filters, effective in capturing small particles. Some models also include activated carbon filters to reduce VOCs and odors.

Prevent mold by controlling moisture levels. Fix leaks promptly, ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. Regularly clean areas prone to moisture, such as shower tiles and window sills.

Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) & Radiation

EMFs, or electromagnetic fields, are invisible areas of energy associated with the use of electrical power and various forms of natural and man-made lighting. Long-term exposure to high levels of EMFs has been linked to health concerns, such as headaches, sleep disturbances, and, in some studies, increased cancer risk.

Keep electronic devices like routers and cell phones away from sleeping areas, turn off Wi-Fi at night, use wired connections when possible, and avoid using devices close to your body. Additionally, consider using EMF shielding materials if necessary.

Proximity to power lines and cell towers can increase your exposure to EMFs. If you’re concerned, it’s advisable to have an EMF assessment conducted to measure the levels in your home. If levels are high, your consult includes mitigation strategies.

While these devices are generally considered safe for everyday use, it’s prudent to minimize unnecessary exposure by using them responsibly. For example, limit the time spent on devices, use speaker mode or earphones when talking on the phone, and avoid placing your phone directly against your body.

Symptoms of EMF sensitivity, also known as Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS), include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sleep disturbances, and skin irritation. If you experience these symptoms frequently and they lessen when you are away from EMF sources, you may be sensitive. An EMF assessment can help determine if your home environment is a contributing factor.

EMF testing involves measuring electric fields, magnetic fields, and radiofrequency radiation in your home. Safe levels vary, but Building Biology Guidelines recommend very low exposure, particularly in sleeping areas. The results will help you understand your exposure and take action if necessary.

Mold and Moisture

Signs of a mold problem include musty odors, visible mold growth, water stains, or discoloration on walls or ceilings. 

Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, respiratory issues, and skin irritation. In severe cases, especially with toxic molds like Stachybotrys (black mold), exposure can lead to more serious health problems, including neurological effects.

Yes, as a Building Biology Consultant, I can identify mold issues through thorough inspection and testing. While I may not perform the remediation myself, I can recommend reputable mold remediation specialists and guide you through the remediation process.

Prevent moisture problems by ensuring proper ventilation, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, fixing leaks promptly, using dehumidifiers in damp areas, and maintaining good drainage around the foundation of your home.

Yes, some molds, like Stachybotrys (black mold), produce mycotoxins that can be particularly harmful to health. However, all mold should be treated as a potential health hazard and addressed promptly to prevent health risks.

Water Quality

Testing your water ensures it’s free from harmful contaminants such as bacteria, heavy metals, pesticides, and chemicals. Even if your water comes from a municipal source, it can still pick up contaminants from pipes or the environment, posing health risks.

Common contaminants include lead, chlorine, fluoride, nitrates, pesticides, bacteria like E. coli, and heavy metals such as arsenic and mercury. These contaminants can pose serious health risks, including neurological damage, gastrointestinal issues, and increased cancer risk.

Water quality testing involves collecting water samples from various points in your home, such as taps, showers, and the main water supply. The samples are then analyzed in a laboratory for contaminants. The results will indicate whether the levels of any contaminants exceed safety guidelines and provide recommendations for improving water quality if necessary.

Improving water quality can involve several strategies, such as installing water filtration systems, using water softeners, or opting for reverse osmosis systems. The best solution depends on the specific contaminants found in your water. We will recommend the most appropriate system for your needs.

Yes, using a water filter can significantly improve the quality of your drinking water. The type of filter depends on the specific contaminants in your water. For example, activated carbon filters are good for removing chlorine and some VOCs, while reverse osmosis systems are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals and nitrates.

Signs of compromised water quality include a strange taste or odor, discoloration, sediment, or frequent plumbing issues. Health symptoms such as gastrointestinal problems, skin irritation, or unexplained illnesses can also be linked to poor water quality.

If contamination is detected, you may need to install a water filtration system, replace plumbing components, or in severe cases, use alternative water sources.

Yes, there are various affordable solutions, ranging from simple faucet-mounted filters to more comprehensive under-sink or whole-house filtration systems. The choice depends on your budget and the specific contaminants in your water.

Well water should be tested for bacteria (e.g., E. coli), nitrates, pH, and specific local contaminants like arsenic or radon. City water tests may focus more on chlorine levels, lead, and byproducts of water treatment processes. Both types of water should be tested annually to ensure safety.

Building Materials and Furnishings

 Healthiest building materials are those that are non-toxic, low in VOCs, and sustainable. Examples include natural wood, bamboo, cork, natural stone, clay-based paints, and low-VOC or VOC-free products. These materials help reduce indoor pollution and contribute to a healthier indoor environment.

Many modern construction materials contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, asbestos, lead, and VOCs. These chemicals can off-gas over time, leading to poor indoor air quality and potential health risks. A Test Your Nest consultant can identify these risks and recommend safer alternatives.

Choose furniture made from natural materials and free of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde or flame retardants. Opt for organic textiles, non-toxic cleaning products, and avoid synthetic fragrances. Ensuring proper ventilation and using air purifiers can also help reduce exposure.

You can make your home more sustainable by using energy-efficient appliances, installing proper insulation, choosing renewable building materials, using water-saving fixtures, and incorporating passive solar design. Reducing waste and recycling materials during construction or renovation will also contribute to sustainability.

Thermal Comfort and Ventilation

Improving thermal comfort while maintaining good air quality involves proper insulation, using energy-efficient windows, and ensuring adequate ventilation. Consider installing a heat recovery ventilation (HRV) system, which provides fresh air and improves climate control while saving energy.

Best practices for ventilation include using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, keeping windows open when weather and air quality permits, and ensuring your HVAC system is well-maintained. For energy efficiency, consider a whole-house ventilation system like an HRV or energy recovery ventilation (ERV) system.

Yes. While airtight homes are energy-efficient, they will trap indoor pollutants if not properly ventilated, leading to poor indoor air quality. It’s important to balance energy efficiency with adequate ventilation to ensure a healthy living environment.

Safety and Health Concerns

We can help with conditions like asthma, allergies, electromagnetic hypersensitivity, and other environmentally-induced health issues. By improving indoor air quality, reducing EMF exposure, and eliminating mold, Test Your Nest will help you create a healthier living environment that supports you and your families overall well-being.

Protect your family by regularly testing for indoor pollutants like radon, VOCs, and mold, ensuring good ventilation, reducing EMF exposure, and using non-toxic building materials and furnishings. A Test Your Nest consultant will provide specific recommendations based on your home’s unique needs.

If you suspect your home is causing health issues, contact ust to conduct a thorough assessment. This will identify potential hazards like poor air quality, high EMF levels, or mold, allowing you to take action to improve your indoor environment and health.

It’s recommended to have your home assessed annually or whenever there are significant changes, such as after a renovation, or if you notice health symptoms that may be related to environmental factors. Regular assessments help ensure your home remains a safe and healthy environment.

Cost and Logistics

The cost of an assessment varies depending on the size of the property and the scope of the assessment. Prices typically range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It’s important to discuss your specific needs with us to get an accurate estimate.

Services typically include a thorough inspection of the home for air quality, EMF levels, mold, water quality, and building materials. We will provide a detailed report with findings and recommendations. The assessment process usually takes between 3 to 5 hours, with a report delivered within a few days to a week.

Testing frequency depends on your living conditions and concerns. For example, homes with a history of mold issues should be tested annually, while air quality and EMF levels can be tested every few years or if new concerns arise.

If serious issues are found, we will provide a detailed action plan outlining the steps needed to address them. This may involve remediation, repairs, or lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to environmental hazards. We can also recommend qualified professionals to carry out the necessary work.

Post-Assessment Actions

After identifying problems, we will provide our recommendations based on your budget, which may include hiring professionals for remediation, improving ventilation, installing water or air filtration systems, or making changes to your daily habits to reduce exposure to toxins and EMFs.

Yes, we can provide solutions and recommend trusted professionals for remediation. This might include mold remediation experts, electricians for EMF reduction, or contractors for necessary repairs or modifications. Additional coordination with contractors will be charged at an hourly rate. 

To maintain a healthy environment, follow our recommendations, monitor air and water quality regularly, and stay informed about potential environmental hazards. Simple practices like reducing chemical use, ensuring good ventilation, and using low-EMF technology can help maintain a healthy home.

Yes, when purchasing a whole home assessment, you will receive a detailed report that includes the findings of the assessment, identified hazards, and specific recommendations for improving your home environment. 

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