INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY EVALUATION

Transcription

1 INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY EVALUATION MIRASOL RESIDENCES VILLAS AT FORTUNA AND BLUERIDGE SUBDIVISIONS SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS Prepared for SAN ANTONIO HOUSING AUTHORITY SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS by ETC INFORMATION SERVICES, LLC Donald J. Schaezler, Ph.D., P.E., CIH April 2007

2 ETC INFORMATION SERVICES, LLC Old Wiederstein Road! Cibolo, Texas / ! 210/ fax! engineering, technology, consulting Project No. 7A-020 April 30, 2007 San Antonio Housing Authority 1315 N. Elmendorf San Antonio, Texas Attn: Mr. Henry Alvarez, President Re: Indoor Environmental Quality Evaluations Villas at Fortuna and Blueridge Subdivisions, San Antonio, Texas Gentlemen: A copy of the subject evaluation report for the referenced properties is being forwarded to you for your information and necessary action. We will be happy to answer any questions concerning this report. It has been a pleasure working with you on this important assignment. We look forward to being of continuing service to you. Sincerely, ETC INFORMATION SERVICES, LLC Donald J. Schaezler, Ph.D., P.E., CIH President ii

3 DISCLAIMER This study and report have been prepared on behalf of and for the exclusive use of our client. It is solely for use in environmental evaluation of the subject property. Our efforts in this study have been to identify the potential environmental hazard conditions of the subject property. Possible sources of contamination may have been omitted because of the limitations of this assessment, the inaccuracy of available records, or unreported or undetected situations of environmental concern. Our recommendations and conclusions, which are based on our professional judgment concerning data obtained from records, communications, on-site observations, and sampling and analysis of subsoils, wastes, wastewater, ground water, surface water, indoor and outdoor air, soil-gas, or building materials, may vary if additional investigations are conducted on the subject locations. Services were conducted in accordance with the standards of care and diligence normally practiced by recognized engineering firms or consultants in performing services of a similar nature, in a similar locale, and under similar circumstances. iii

4 Table of Contents 1.0 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND Purpose of the Evaluation Subject Residences FIELD OPERATIONS Description of Residences Observations Field Measurements Moisture Content Air Quality Thermal performance of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems (HVACs) Sampling Photographs RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Fungi in Air Swab, Bulk, and Dust Samples Return Air Filter Samples Evaporator Coils Supply Air Samples Fibers and Other Particles in Air Samples Sources of Water Damage CONCLUSIONS RECOMMENDATIONS APPENDIX I APPENDIX II APPENDIX III APPENDIX IV TABLES FIGURES CHAINS OF CUSTODY AND LABORATORY REPORTS INDIVIDUAL RESIDENCE REPORTS iv

5 1.0 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND 1.1 Purpose of the Evaluation Eleven residences in neighborhoods on the west side of San Antonio, Texas, were evaluated for indoor environmental quality conditions between March 29 and April 5, The purposes of the evaluations were as follows: To interview residents about their complaints with respect to water damage, mold, health symptoms, and other indoor environmental issues To collect indoor air samples for identification and enumeration of airborne fungal spores and culturable fungi To collect indoor air samples for enumeration of fiber glass and other mineral fibers, pollen, skin cell fragments, and other particles To measure indoor air quality with respect to common chemical and physical parameters To evaluate apparent sources of water damage and visible mold in the residences To document areas with excess moisture content in building materials To assess, in a preliminary manner, the condition and performance of the HVAC systems To recommend remediation of residences as necessary, including preparation of Mold Remediation Protocols ETC Information Services, LLC (ETC), was contacted March 27, 2007, by a representative of the San Antonio Housing Authority (SAHA) concerning indoor air issues at several homes in the Mirasol Project area in west San Antonio. Residents of these homes had complained of mold and/or dust from attic insulation. ETC was subsequently engaged by SAHA (Client). The investigations were performed at a screening level and were designed to obtain information on the overall condition of the residences. They were not intended to be indepth investigations of all potential conditions that affect the indoor environment. The investigations were conducted by Donald J. Schaezler, Ph.D., P.E., CIH, with assistance from other ETC staff. Dr. Schaezler is a licensed Mold Assessment Consultant (MAC), a licensed professional engineer (P.E.), and a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH). Investigations were conducted March 29, March 30, April 2, April 5, and April 23, This report includes individual residence reports for each of the 11 residences identified in section 1.2. These reports form Appendix IV of this report. 1

6 1.2 Subject Residences The eleven subject residences were in the Villas at Fortuna subdivision (eight residences) and the Blueridge subdivision (three residences). These residences were apparently built by KB Homes in about They were initially leased, but most were sold to selected families. The residents in these homes have complained to SAHA and KB about a variety of structural and indoor environmental issues. These complaints have triggered investigations by several consultants, including this report. The locations and characteristics of the eleven homes are summarized in Table 1. 2

7 2.0 FIELD OPERATIONS 2.1 Description of Residences The subject residences are all approximately seven years old, single-family dwellings located in west San Antonio, between West Commerce and Culebra Road, near St. Mary s University. They all appear to have reinforced concrete foundations, Hardiplank siding external wall finish, conventional wood framing, and a complex hip ad gable roof with composition shingles. Ten houses are one-story, and one house is two-story. They all fit three floor plans. In two of the three plans there are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, Kitchen, Breakfast Room, Living Room, Utility Room or Closet, and an attached one-car Garage. One house, with two floors, has Living Room, Kitchen, Dining Room, Utility Room, and Garage downstairs and four bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs. The two one-story floor plans are described in Figures 1 and 2 in Appendix I. The two-story floor plan is described in Figure 3 in Appendix I. In general, residences have carpeting in bedrooms, the Living Room, and hallways. They have vinyl flooring in the Entry, Kitchen, Breakfast Room, bathrooms, and the Utility Room or Closet. In the Zaragosa residence, ceramic tile had been installed in place of carpeting in the Living Room and Hall. Interior finishes are typically textured and painted gypsum board. In each residence there is a single, central HVAC system of split design. The condenser units (CUs) are outside on concrete pads. The air handler units (AHUs) are in hallway closets. Return air is routed through a grille in the lower closet door and up through a supporting platform to the AHU. The AHU has a return air filter, evaporator coil, blower, and electric heating unit. Supply air is routed up to the Attic through a ductboard plenum. Flexible runouts are attached to that plenum. The return air plenum is shared by a low profile hot water heater. The ceiling penetration in the HVAC Closet is sealed with aluminum foil duct tape. In many cases, there were small openings to a chase behind the AHU and to the attic behind the supply air plenum. Utility Rooms or Closets include connections for washers and dryers. Some of the dryers exhaust to vent stacks located in wall cavities, and the vent stacks continue though the roofs. For simplicity of discussion in this report, all streets (Precious, Villa Grande, NW 26 th ) are assumed to run north-south. Directional references, such as front, right, rear, and left will refer to an observer facing the front of the house from the street. Back door refers to the door other than the main entrance and may be to a side yard rather than to the rear of the house. 3

8 2.2 Observations 1. Mold growth and/or water staining was observed at many of the window sills in most of the residences. 2. Water damage and/or mold growth was observed at many of the back doors in the residences. 3. Limited water damage was observed at many of the showers and bathtubs, including some of the gypsum board walls under shower heads and at some of the gypsum board lower walls and base trim at the head of the tubs. 4. Many of the homes had excessive dust in the return air plenums, including at the entrance to the air handler units (AHUs). 5. Most of the homes were using low efficiency return air filters. Some of these had excessive dust buildup. 6. Most of the evaporator coils had moderate to severe accumulations of dust. 7. In two supply air plenums that were observed, there were moderate amounts of dust buildup, more than would normally be seen in houses of this age. Areas with water damage and mold growth are summarized in Table 2, along with other characterizations of investigation results. 2.3 Field Measurements Moisture Content Moisture measurements were made for wood, sheetrock, and concrete surfaces in areas with visible or potential water damage with Delmhorst and Tramex moisture instruments. Measurements were also taken in background areas for comparison. Generally, the following values were used to judge if materials had elevated levels of moisture. Material Wood Normal Moisture Content, % Moist Conditions % Wet Conditions % < >19 Gypsum Board < >0.9 Concrete <4 4 5 >5 Wet conditions are of the most concern, because they represent an active or current process, and microbial growth will occur in a few days at wet locations. Moist conditions are also of concern, because they may represent areas that were wet previously and are in the process of drying. Wet or moist conditions were found in the following locations: 4

9 1. Moist tackboard in the Master Closet in the Olivares residence (from old water leaks) 2. Wet gypsum board under the shower head in the Master Bathroom in the Rojas residence (dripping during use) 3. Wet or moist gypsum board and base trim at the head of the bathtub in the Master Bathroom in the Rojas residence, Bathroom 2 in the De Los Santos residence, the Master Bathroom in the De Los Santos residence, the Master Bathroom in the Gonzalez residence, and Bathroom 2 in the Gonzalez residence (overspray during use) 4. Wet or moist trim at the back door in the Gonzalez residence, the Cabrera residence, the Cintron residence, and the De Los Santos residence (rain water intrusion) 5. Moist base trim near the cabinet in Bathroom 2 in the Cintron residence (probably related to a recent, isolated spill) 6. Moist window sill or wall just under the sill in the Master Bedroom in De Los Santos residence, Bedroom 4 in the Gonzalez residence, and the Master Bedroom in the Rojas residence. These locations are summarized in Table 2, along with summaries of other pertinent findings Air Quality During the survey, indoor areas were investigated by measuring general indoor air quality parameters to determine the potential for chemical and physical problems. Temperature, relative humidity, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide were measured using a Vulcain Safety Palm field instrument. Results are summarized in Table 3. Key points are discussed below. 1. The indoor temperatures, relative humidities, and dew points were unsatisfactory in all of the homes. This was a result of lack of operation of the HAVC systems during mild weather conditions and the HVAC systems inability to dehumidify air satisfactorily. 2. Carbon dioxide values were unsatisfactory in most of the homes. This was generally a result of occupancy levels and degree of ventilation with outdoor air. Carbon monoxide values were satisfactory in most of the homes. Readings were high in the Rojas house, but the result was not significant because the instrument had interference from the foam generated by a coil cleaning chemical being used by an airconditioning contractor. Houses with smokers had positive values of CO, while other 5

10 houses did not have measureable CO values. All results are summarized in Table 3 in Appendix I Thermal performance of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems (HVACs) During the survey, the thermal performance of the HVAC system in most residences was evaluated by measuring the temperature of supply air and return air in the system, using a laser-focused infrared thermometer. The thermostat was turned to a low temperature, and measurements were taken at the return air grille and at representative supply air grilles. Many houses had poor, marginal, or no thermal performance. The results are summarized in Table 4 in Appendix I. 2.4 Sampling The emphasis of the sampling program was to evaluate indoor air quality. Samples were collected from two locations in each house, generally at the return air grille with the blower in the AHU on and in the Master Bedroom near the Master Bathroom. A third location was used for two-story houses. Two bulk samples and two swab samples were also collected to evaluate mold levels in the return and supply sides of several systems. A third bulk sample of attic insulation was used as a standard by the laboratory for evaluating the presence of attic dust in air samples. After collection, samples were shipped to Aerotech/P&K Laboratories (Aerotech) in Phoenix, Arizona, using standard sample preservation and handling procedures. The chains of custody and analytical reports are in Appendix III. Aerotech is licensed by the State of Texas as a Mold Analysis Laboratory. 2.5 Photographs Photographs were taken in each of the eleven residences. They are not included herein but are available for review. 6

11 3.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION All sample results are included in Appendix IV. The results are summarized in the tables in Appendix I and are discussed in this section for comparison purposes. 3.1 Fungi in Air In general, two sets of indoor air samples and two outdoor air samples were collected from each house. For two story houses, three sets of indoor air samples were collected. One set of indoor air samples was collected from near the return air grille, and one set was collected from a rear bedroom. Indoor air samples were collected for indirect evidence of water damage and mold amplification (i.e., growth) and to evaluate potential exposures to occupants of the house. Indoor air samples for mold are evaluated by several comparisons. The first comparison is to outdoor air. Indoor air should have fewer numbers of molds than outdoor air, and the diversity of the mold types in indoor air should be similar to that in outdoor air. An individual indoor air sample can also be compared to other samples from within the same house, to evaluate if specific areas of the indoor environment have amplification sources. Finally, an indoor air sample can be compared to similar samples from other homes in the neighborhood on the same day. When indoor air samples have clearly elevated levels of mold by one of these comparisons it may be inferred that there may be amplification sources within the area of the sample. This can often be confirmed by inspection of that area. Lacking visible mold growth areas, hidden sources of mold may be investigated. When indoor air samples have mold levels that are ambiguous, the interpretation is more difficult. Often samples have lower counts of a particular mold type than in outdoor air, but the proportion of total spores represented by that mold type is elevated. This apparently different population diversity may indicate that hidden or minor amplification sources are present. However, there may be other causes for the ambiguity. Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores, common indicators of water damage, are small spores that avoid normal indoor removal processes, such as deposition and filtration, better than slightly larger spores such as Cladosporium. Therefore, their proportion of the total population of mold spores often increases without any indoor amplification sources. Also, there are many normal household processes that produce local areas of minor mold amplification. This includes such processes as wet carpets from pet activities, improperly preserved food products, decaying fruit, condensation on ceilings above showers and at windows, overspray of showers and drag-out of water from bathtubs, and simple spills. 7

12 Comparisons are particularly difficult when numbers are low. Diversity is hard to evaluate when there are only a few members of the population. With very low numbers of molds in outdoor air, comparisons are better done between different indoor air samples rather than between indoor air and outdoor air. Outdoor air samples from the neighborhood were used for all houses in that neighborhood on that day. On one day, outdoor air samples were not collected because of rain. Samples were collected for total bioaerosols, using Allergenco D cassettes, which are slit impaction samplers. Sampling was at 15 liters per minute for five minutes. The slides in the cassettes were interpreted microscopically by Aerotech and were analyzed for total bioaerosols. Results of analyses are summarized in Table 5 of Appendix I. Samples were also collected for culturable fungi, using a single stage Anderson-type impactor with potato dextrose agar plates. Sampling was at 28.3 liters per minute for three minutes. The plates were then reassembled, sealed with tape, and shipped to Aerotech for incubation and interpretation. Results of analyses are summarized in Table 6 of Appendix I. 1. Three houses (Olivares, Rojas, Gonzalez) had clearly elevated levels of total fungal spores and/or elevated proportions of spore types indicative of water damage, such as Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores. 2. Olivares also had low levels of Stachybotrys spores. No other houses had any evidence of Stachybotrys. 3. Two of the three houses (Olivares, Gonzalez) had clearly elevated levels of culturable fungi and/or elevated proportions of fungal types indicative of water damage, such as Aspergillus or Penicillium. 4. Six houses (O Campo, Zaragosa, Cintron, Cabrera, De Los Santos, and Salazar) had low levels of total fungal spores with somewhat elevated proportions of Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores, but at low levels. 3.2 Swab, Bulk, and Dust Samples Surface samples were taken with sterile swabs, and bulk samples were collected by selecting a representative portion of a material and placing it in a sample bag using clean instruments. Dust samples were collected by vacuuming surfaces at about 30 lpm through a ¼-inch diameter tube and collecting dust on 0.8 micron filters (no such samples were collected for this project). These samples were analyzed by microscopic examination and by culturing. Results of analyses are summarized in Tables 7 and 8 of Appendix I. 8

13 3.2.1 Return Air Filter Samples Return air plenums and filters collect airborne material over an extended period of time. The fungal spores and viable fungi in these locations may represent those that have been present in indoor air over extended periods of time prior to sampling. If conditions are moist where the sample is collected, then the sample may represent a source of microbial amplification. 1. The return air filter in the Zaragosa residence had a very low level of total fungal spores and a moderate level of culturable fungi. There was a predominance of Penicillium species Variant 1. This finding is consistent with the possibly elevated levels of Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores found in one air sample and may also be indicative of growth occurring on the filter itself. 2. The return air filter in the De Los Santos residence had moderate levels of total fungal spores with a significant proportion of Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores. There were moderate levels of culturable fungi. The culturable fungi were dominated by Penicillium species Variant 1 and Paecilomyces, both of which are indicative of moist conditions. This finding is consistent with the possibly elevated levels of Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores found in one air sample and may also be indicative of growth occurring on the filter itself Evaporator Coils Evaporator coils are cold during operation of the air-conditioning system, and condensation typically occurs. Dust accumulation typically occurs on coils because of the small dimensions of the finned coils. Dust accumulation is exacerbated if return air filtering is poor. If dust has accumulated on the coils, fungal amplification of cold-tolerant microorganisms may take place. Evaporator coils may then be a source of microbial matter in the indoor environment. 1. Many evaporator coils were clearly laden with debris, but no samples were collected to characterize the debris Supply Air Samples Supply air plenums and ductwork often experience moist conditions, because condensation is often taking place at the evaporator coils just upstream. Supply side samples may indicate if the supply air distribution system is a source or pathway for microbial matter in the indoor environment. 9

14 1. The supply air plenum in the Zaragosa residence had low levels of total fungal spores and moderate levels of culturable fungi. Almost all counts were Cladosporium, which is expected to be present on cool surfaces. 2. The supply air plenum in the Salazar residence had only very low levels of total fungal spores and culturable fungi. These results for the supply air system indicate that the supply air ductwork in these two houses is probably not an important source of fungal material in the indoor environment. 3.3 Fibers and Other Particles in Air Samples The Allergenco D slides were evaluated by Aerotech by light microscopy for the presence of fibers and particles of potential interest other than fungal spores and mycelial fragments. The fibers found were compared specifically to a sample of attic insulation from the Zaragosa residence. The results are summarized in Table 5. There were high concentrations of fibers and skin fragments in many samples. There were generally very low levels of pollen, insect parts, and fiberglass. The designation of fibers in Table 5 means fibers that were distinct from typical fiberglass and distinct from the rock wool insulation material. Although high concentrations of fibers were found, no fibers from the rock wool insulation were reported. Fiberglass was reported separately. A few samples did have concentrations of fiberglass that were much higher than other samples, including one sample at the Rojas residence and one sample at the Gonzalez residence. The slides from the Allergenco D cassettes were shipped to Aerotech s Billerica, MA, laboratory for additional evaluation of selected samples by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or polarized light microscopy (PLM). Preliminary attempts at analyses were not successful, and new samples on different media will be required for more complete and accurate characterization of airborne fibers. This work is part of the recommendations in section

15 3.4 Sources of Water Damage Based on field observations and measurements, apparent sources of water causing damages at the subject residences include the following: 1. Rain water Intrusion at the back doors (most of the houses) 2. Condensation at windows (essentially all of the houses) 3. Possible rain water intrusion at some windows (De Los Santos, Gonzalez, Rojas, Zaragosa) 4. Overspray from showers onto nearby walls and floors (Rojas, De Los Santos, Gonzalez) 5. Condensation in bathrooms, especially near showers (Cabrera, Gonzalez) 6. Plumbing leaks (Rojas and Olivares) 7. Condensate backup and leaks from air handler units 8. Sewage backups and overflows (O Campo) 11

16 4.0 CONCLUSIONS 1. Most of the houses investigated have problems with the thermal performance of their air-conditioning systems. These conditions may contribute to the high relative humidities found in the houses. 2. Most of the houses had high relative humidity during the preliminary investigations. High relative humidity is conducive to mold growth, dust mite proliferation, and other indoor environmental problems. 3. Most of the houses investigated have inadequate filtration within the air handler units (AHUs). This condition will contribute to problems with excess dust in the houses. 4. Most, if not all, of the houses investigated appear to have excess dust accumulated within the interior environment. This dust is typically visible on bathroom exhaust vent intakes, in the return air plenums, in carpets at bedroom doors, and in hard-to-reach areas such as behind appliances. The source of excess dust is unknown. 5. Most of the houses investigated have symptoms of inadequate ventilation with fresh, outdoor air (high carbon dioxide concentrations). This condition, at high occupancy levels, may exacerbate problems with high humidity. 6. Some of the houses investigated have conditions that are conducive to indoor environment complaints from occupants, such as the presence of pets, the presence of insects, soiled carpets, and the presence of smokers indoors. 7. All of the houses investigated have at least some water damage and mold growth at some window sills. This damage is consistent with condensation that would occur during cold weather. 8. Several houses have evidence of water intrusion through windows (De Los Santos, Rojas, Gonzalez) 9. Most of the houses have evidence of water intrusion at the back door. 10. Two houses (Olivares, Rojas) have had specific plumbing leaks at Kitchens or bathrooms. 11. Three specific houses (Olivares, Rojas, Gonzalez) have evidence of significant water damage and mold growth with resultant elevations of airborne mold spores. 12. High levels of fibers and skin cell fragments were found in many air samples. These fibers were identified by the lab as being different from fiberglass fibers and different from fibers from the rock wool insulation. Further work will be necessary to identify and characterize these fibers. 13. Fiberglass fibers were found at high levels, relative to other samples, in air samples from the Rojas and Gonzalez residences. 12

17 5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 1. A technically competent HVAC contractor should evaluate each house for the size of the HVAC equipment, the capacity of the blower, the size of the plenums, the size and orientation of the ductwork, the size of the registers, the connections of all supply air components, the sealing of the HVAC Closet and return air plenum, the cleanliness of the system and the need for cleaning, the thermal performance of the system, the balance of the supply air system, the operation of the thermostat, the level of refrigerant in the system, and other aspects of the design and operation of the system. 2. All houses should use high performance pleated return air filters, rated as MERV 8 or better. 3. Deficiencies in installation of doors and windows should be investigated and corrected as necessary. This should start with representative houses where problems have been observed and extended to other locations as appropriate. 4. During the evaluation of the HVAC systems and investigation of door and window installations, the Mold Assessment Consultant should evaluate the condition of the systems with respect to mold contamination. 5. Mold remediation should be performed in the Olivares, Rojas, and Gonzalez houses. Mold remediation protocols have been prepared for these three residences. Following mold remediation, including post remediation verification (clearance), these residents should be able to reoccupy their homes. 6. Several houses (O Campo, Zaragosa, Cabrera, Cintron, De Los Santos, Salazar) should be evaluated in more detail for indoor environmental conditions, including mold, bacteria, and allergens in the air, on surfaces, in carpets, and in wall cavities. Following such additional investigation, remediation may be required. 7. Houses with excessive dust problems (whether due to lack of maintenance or defects) should be thoroughly cleaned. HEPA-vacuuming of all surfaces and HEPA-vacuuming plus hot water extraction of upholstery and carpeting by a professional cleaning company may be very useful to reduce the inventory of dust in the houses. Together with the use of high performance return air filters, this should help to correct the dust problems. 8. Water intrusion at windows, especially in the Master Bedroom, and at back doors should be investigated by deconstruction of representative examples and careful structural investigation of moisture barriers, thresholds, and other features. Some of this investigation can be done during the recommended remediation of several houses (see Recommendation 5 above). 13

18 9. All penetrations of the ceilings (such as the peripheral edges of supply air ducts and vents and exhaust fans) and chases (such as at the HVAC closet) should be sealed. 10. All improperly finished sheetrock/shower-surround junctions should be properly repaired. 11. An investigation should be performed to characterize the nature and source of dust and fibers in homes where there are unusual dust problems and/or symptoms that may be related to dust. 14

19 APPENDIX I TABLES 15

20 TABLE 1 SUMMARY OF RESIDENCES INVESTIGATED No. Street Occupant Owner Yr. Built SF Stories Garage Neighborhood Subdivision Date Investigated 448 Precious Battle Battle One 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 3/29/ Precious Olivares SAHA One 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 3/29/ Precious Flores Flores One 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 3/29/ Precious De Los De Los One 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 4/2/07 Santos Santos 402 Precious O'Campo SAHA One 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 3/29/ Villa Grande Rojas Rojas One 1 car Cenizo Park Blueridge 3/29/ NW 26th Street Zaragosa Zaragosa One 1 car Cenizo Park Blueridge 3/29/ Precious Cintron Cintron One 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 3/30/ Precious Cabrera SAHA One 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 3/30/ Villa Grande Salazar Salazar One 1 car Cenizo Park Blueridge 4/5/ Precious Gonzalez SAHA Two 1 car Rosedale Park Villas at Fortuna 4/5/07 16

21 TABLE 2 SUMMARY OF MOLD GROWTH, WATER DAMAGE AND MOISTURE CONTENT No. Street Occupant Visible Mold Growth Visible Water Damage High Moisture Content (wet or moist) 448 Precious Battle Window sills (slight) Window sills (slight) 458 Precious Olivares Window sills (slight); Master Closet carpet and lower walls Window sills (slight); Master Closet 436 Precious Flores Window sills (slight); some Window sills (slight); above FG in mold growth above FG in shower surround in Master Bathroom shower surround in Master Bathroom 506 Precious De Los Santos Window sills (slight) Window sills (slight); trim at back door; trim near head of both tubs; sheetrock wall under shower head in Master Bathroom 402 Precious O'Campo Window sills (slight) Window sills (slight); trim at back door 126 Villa Grande Rojas Window sills (slight, except at Master Bedroom); rotted shelf under K sink (repaired); return air plenum (slight growth on wall surface); back door near threshold (slight) Window sills (slight), except at Master Bedroom, where some damage was noted from the exterior; rotted shelf under K sink-shelf replaced; water stains on carpet and tackboard near return air plenum; back door near threshold Tackboard in Master closet Trim at back door; lower wall and trim near head of both tubs; MBR window sill Lower wall and trim near head of MBR tub; wall under shower head; wall under Master Bedroom window sill; exterior materials near Master Bedroom window and back door 1607 NW 26th Zaragosa Window sills/returns Window sills (slight) 432 Precious Cintron Window sills (slight) Window sills (slight); trim at back door Trim near sink in Bath 2; trim at back door 443 Precious Cabrera Window sills (slight); Master bath shower wall/ceiling; trim at back door Window sills (slight); Kitchen floor; back door; Master shower walls Trim at back door 139 Villa Grande Salazar Window sills (slight); Bath 2 shower surround Window sills (slight); sheetrock wall under shower head in Bath Precious Gonzalez Window sills (slight); Bath 2 on upper walls and ceiling; Master Bath above shower surround; trim and tackboard at back door Trim at back door, Kitchen cabinet near back door; both baths at head of tub; window sills (slight) Yellow highlighted boxes indicate conditions that may be significant in evaluation of indoor environmental issues. Trim at back door; lower walls and trim at head of both tubs; lower wall under windows and at flashing in Bedroom 4 17

22 Location March 29, 2007 Table 3 Summary of Air Quality Measurements March 29 to April 5, 2007 Temp ºF RH % CO 2 ppmv CO ppmv Outside Air Battle in LR Olivares at return air grille Olivares in MBR Flores at return air grille Flores in MBR O Campo at return air grille O Campo in MBR Rojas in MBR interference 61 Rojas in BR Interference 61 Rojas in K Interference 66 Rojas in LR interference 65 Outside Air Zaragosa at return air grille Zaragosa in MBR March 30, 2007 Outside Air Cabrera at return air grille Cabrera in MBR Cintron at return air grille Dew Point ºF 18

23 Location Temp ºF RH % CO 2 ppmv CO ppmv Cintron in MBR April 2, 2007 Outside Air De Los Santos in MBR De Los Santos at return air grille De Los Santos in BR De Los Santos at return air grille after operation of AC April 5, Outside Air Salazar at return air grille Salazar in MBR Gonzalez at return air grille (after operation of AC) Gonzalez in K (after operation of AC) Yellow highlighted boxes indicate conditions that may be significant in evaluation of indoor environmental issues. Dew Point ºF 19

24 TABLE 4 SUMMARY OF HVAC SYSTEM OPERATION AND SPECIAL CONDTIONS No. Street Occupant AC AHU Dew IAQ No. Pets Comments Operation Cleanliness Point CO 2 /CO Occupants 448 Precious Battle Marginal Poor /0 Ca. 4 1 dog Dog in Garage? Soiled carpets 458 Precious Olivares Poor Poor /0 Ca. 4 Birds in Kitchen; Ant infestation; significant water damage and mold in closet 436 Precious Flores Comp won t Poor /0 Ca. 4 Possible sewer backups; start 506 Precious De Los Good Poor /0 None Santos 402 Precious O'Campo Marginal Poor /0 1 1 dog 126 Villa Grande Rojas Not checked 1607 NW 26th Street Coils being cleaned; RAF very dirty / interference History of sewer backups and overflows; soldering or brazing operations in Utility Room Ca. 5 Smoker in house; candles burning; improper water damage repair to Kitchen cabinet, water stains and slight mold growth near return air plenum Zaragosa Marginal Poor /0 Ca. 4 Living Room and Hall carpeting has been replaced with ceramic tile 432 Precious Cintron Poor Poor /2-3 Ca. 4-5 Smoker in house 443 Precious Cabrera Poor Poor /0 Ca. 4-5 Cockroach infestation; very bad carpet condition 139 Villa Grande Salazar Not Poor /0 3 checked 467 Precious Gonzalez Good Poor /0 Ca. 5 Poss. Ant infestation; significant visible water damage Yellow highlighted boxes indicate conditions that may be significant in evaluation of indoor environmental issues. 20

25 No. Street Occupant Sample Location 3/29/07 Outdoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna TABLE 5 SUMMARY OF AIRBORNE AND AHU PARTICLES Total Fungal Spores Unusual Spore Counts 21 Mycelial Fragments Fiber Count Skin Cell Fragments Fiberglass 402 Precious O Campo Outside Air 5,973 No 40 <13 <13 <13 93 Indoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 448 Precious Battle Return Air 320 Bipolaris/Drechslera 448 Precious Battle MBR Bad Sample 133 1,040 1,867 < Precious Olivares MBR 8,133 As/Pn 253 2,067 3, Precious Olivares Return Air 733 No 227 1,080 2, Precious Flores MBR 493 No , Precious Flores Return Air 320 No , Precious O Campo Return Air 1,067 Possibly As/Pn ,747 < Precious O'Campo MBR 720 Possibly As/Pn , Outdoor Air Samples Blueridge 1607 NW 26 th Zaragosa Outside Air 5,293 No 40 <13 13 < Indoor Air Samples Blueridge 126 Villa Grande Rojas MBR 1,120 As/Pn , Villa Grande Rojas LR 2,267 As/Pn ,920 1, NW 26 th Zaragosa Return Air 560 Possibly As/Pn* 293 1,253 2,133 < Low spores 1607 NW 26 th Zaragosa MBR 93 No 27 1,267 2,547 <13 <13 3/30/07 Outdoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna None collected due to weather Indoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 432 Precious Cintron Return Air 227 Possibly As/Pn* , Precious Cintron MBR 133 No , < Precious Cabrera Return Air 333 Possibly As/Pn* 13 1,027 4, Precious Cabrera MBR 67 Possibly As/Pn* ,227 <13 <13 Pollen AHU

26 No. Street Occupant Sample Location 4/2/07 Outdoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna TABLE 5 SUMMARY OF AIRBORNE AND AHU PARTICLES Total Fungal Spores Unusual Spore Counts Mycelial Fragments Fiber Count Skin Cell Fragments Fiberglass 506 Precious De Los Santos Outside Air 6,813 No <13 < Precious De Los Santos Outside Air 3,053 No < <13 13 Indoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 506 Precious De Los Santos MBR 960 Possibly As/Pn* < Precious De Los Santos Return Air 547 Possibly As/Pn* Mod spores, As/Pn 4/5/07 Outdoor Air Samples Blueridge 139 Villa Grande Salazar Outside Air 2,173 No Villa Grande Salazar Outside Air 1,853 No < Indoor Air Samples Blueridge 139 Villa Grande Salazar Return Air 1,360 Possibly As/Pn* 173 1,093 4, v. low spores 139 Villa Grande Salazar MBR 520 No ,880 <13 67 Outdoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 467 Precious Gonzales Outside Air 1,787 No Indoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 467 Precious Gonzalez Return Air 867 No , Precious Gonzalez Kitchen 2,707 As/Pn, 200 1,173 6, Cladosporium 467 Precious Gonzalez MBR 1,160 No , Yellow highlighted boxes indicate conditions that may be significant in evaluation of indoor environmental issues. *The numbers of Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores are low, but the proportions are high, relative to outdoor air and/or to other indoor air samples. As/Pn denotes Aspergillus/Penicillium-like spores. Cl denotes Cladosporium. Pollen AHU 22

27 TABLE 6 SUMMARY OF AIRBORNE CULTURABLE FUNGI AND AHU SAMPLES No. Street Occupant Sample Location Total Fungi Unusual Counts March 29, 2007 Outdoor Air Sample Villas at Fortuna 402 Precious O'Campo Outdoor Air 82 No Cladosporium; this may not be representative of the outdoor air that has affected the indoor air in the subject residences. Indoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 448 Precious Battle Return Air 153 No 448 Precious Battle MBR 129 Bipolaris 458 Precious Olivares Return Air 165 Bipolaris 458 Precious Olivares MBR 153 Bipolaris 436 Precious Flores Return Air Bad Sample 436 Precious Flores MBR 59 No 402 Precious O'Campo Return Air 94 No 402 Precious O'Campo MBR 224 No Outdoor Sample Blueridge 1607 NW 26 th St. Zaragosa Outdoor Air 35 No Cladosporium; this may not be representative of the outdoor air that has affected the indoor air in the subject residences. Indoor Samples Blueridge 126 Villa Grande Rojas MBR 1,106 Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium 126 Villa Grande Rojas LR 59 No 1607 NW 26th St. Zaragosa Return Air NW 26th St. Zaragosa MBR 24 No March 30, 2007 Outdoor Samples None collected due to weather Indoor Samples Villas at Fortuna 432 Precious Cintron Return Air 94 No No Return Air Filter Moderate counts, high Penicillium Supply Air Plenum Mod. counts, Cladosporium 23

28 TABLE 6 SUMMARY OF AIRBORNE CULTURABLE FUNGI AND AHU SAMPLES No. Street Occupant Sample Location Total Fungi Unusual Counts Return Air Filter Supply Air Plenum 432 Precious Cintron MBR 12 No 443 Precious Cabrera Return Air 82 No 443 Precious Cabrera MBR 12 No April 2, 2007 Outdoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 506 Precious De Los Santos Outdoor Air 929 Cladosporium dominant; Sporotrichum significant 506 Precious De Los Santos Outdoor Air 882 Cladosporium dominant; Sporotrichum and yeast significant Indoor Air Samples Villas at Fortuna 506 Precious De Los Santos MBR 647 Alternaria, Penicillium 506 Precious De Los Santos Return Air 329 Alternaria, Penicillium High counts, Penicillium, Paecilomyces April 5, 2007 Outdoor Air Sample Blueridge 139 Villa Grande Salazar Outdoor Air 1,000 Cladosporium dominant Indoor Air Samples Blueridge 139 Villa Grande Salazar Return Air 447 No Very low counts, all Cladosporium 139 Villa Grande Salazar MBR 376 No Outdoor Air Sample Villas at Fortuna 467 Precious Gonzalez Outdoor Air 565 Cladosporium dominant Indoor Air Samples Villa at Fortuna 467 Precious Gonzalez Return Air 424 Possibly Aspergillus niger 467 Precious Gonzalez Kitchen 1,929 Cladosporium; possibly Aspergillus niger, Penicillium Yellow highlighted boxes indicate conditions that may be significant in evaluation of indoor environmental issues. 24

29 Ref. No. SB 1 SB 2 Ref. No. Description of Swab Samples Zaragosa return air filter De Los Santos return air filter Description of Bulk Samples Table 7 Swab and Bulk Samples Identification of Fungal Spores Major Genera Methods S001 and B001 Alternaria Concentration, Cts/cm 2 (%) Aspergillus/ Basidiospores Cladosporium Penicilliumlike spores Total fungal spores 8 (38) <2 <2 8 (38) (14) 85 (21) 72 (18) 164 (40) Alternaria Concentration, Cts/gram (%) Aspergillus/ Basidiospores Cladosporium Penicilliumlike spores Total fungal spores Mycelial Fragments Mycelial Fragments B 1 Zaragosa supply <741 <741 <741 5,926 (100) 5,926 1,481 air plenum B 3 Salazar supply air plenum 741 (11) 1,481 (22) 741 (11) 3,704 (56) 6,667 1,481 Yellow highlighted boxes indicate conditions that may be significant in evaluation of indoor environmental issues. Table 8 Swab and Bulk Samples Identification of Cultural Fungi Major Genera Methods S002 and B002 Ref. No. SB 1 SB 2 Ref. No. Description of Swab Samples Zaragosa return air filter De Los Santos return air filter Description of Bulk Samples Concentration, CFU/cm 2 (%) Aspergillus niger Cladosporium Penicillium Var 1 Paecilomyces Total fungi 19 (4) 47 (10) 356 (78) <1 459 <1 132 (7) 1,060 (55) 616 (32) 1,940 Concentration, CFU/gram (%) Aspergillus niger Cladosporium Penicillium Var 1 Paecilomyces Total fungi <184 35,400 (98) 886 (2) <184 36,300 B 1 Zaragosa supply air plenum, B 3 Salazar supply air <184 2,390 (100) <184 <184 2,390 plenum Yellow highlighted boxes indicate conditions that may be significant in evaluation of indoor environmental issues. 25

30 APPENDIX II FIGURES 26

31 Cl Bedroom 2 Cl Master Bedroom Bedroom 3 Cl Master Bath Bath 2 Master Closet Cl HVAC Utility Room Living Room Kitchen Breakfast Room Garage RESIDENCES REPRESENTED Olivares, 458 Precious Flores, 436 Precious O Campo, 402 Precious Zaragosa, 1607 NW 26th Cabrera, 443 Precious ETC Information Services, LLC MIRASOL RESIDENCES LAYOUT 1 FIGURE 1 Scale: Approx. 1/8" = 1' Drawn By: DJS

32 Cl Master Bedroom Cl Bedroom 2 Master Bath Master Closet Bath 2 Cl Bedroom 3 HVAC Living Room Kitchen Breakfast Room Garage RESIDENCES REPRESENTED Cintron, 432 Precious Battle, 448 Precious De Los Santos, 506 Precious Rojas, 126 Villa Grande Salazar, 139 Villa Grande ETC Information Services, LLC MIRASOL RESIDENCES LAYOUT 2 FIGURE 2 Scale: Approx. 1/8" = 1' Drawn By: DJS

33 FIRST FLOOR Dining Room Kitchen Utility Room Living Room Garage SECOND FLOOR RESIDENCES REPRESENTED Gonzalez, 467 Precious Bedroom 2 Bedroom 4 Cl AHU Up Up Bath 2 Cl Hall Cl M. Bath Master Closet Master Bedroom Bedroom 3 ETC Information Services, LLC MIRASOL RESIDENCES LAYOUT 3 FIGURE 3 Scale: Approx. 1/8" = 1' Drawn By: DJS

34 APPENDIX III CHAINS OF TITLE AND LABORATORY REPORTS 30

35 APPENDIX IV INDIVIDUAL RESIDENCE REPORT