Another concern is that the region's real estate shortage may spur some landlords to move tenants into a new or renovated space prematurely to capture rental costs. In fact, ignoring indoor air quality can cost a company far more than it would save in lower operating bills. By contrast, poor indoor air quality can run up big costs in lost employee time, declining production, regulatory problems and litigation. Workers at the Sacramento-based jobs and career information provider alleged that runaway mold growth gave them lung and sinus infections. The case is still pending.
Experts agree that even the smallest tenant can improve indoor air quality.
Train employees in indoor air quality principles and proper ventilation equipment operation. Keep the facility clean and, when possible, use the least-toxic cleaning agents. Document complaints and symptoms. Ultimately, providing healthy indoor air involves the cooperation of all stakeholders, says Mr. Bernheim. They require some consciousness of the issues, a willingness to implement, and a team approach involving the landlord, the tenant, the building engineers, the design professionals and the occupants.