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Managing Environmental Concerns

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Resident Information

Managing Environmental Concerns

Auburn University Housing works alongside our campus partners to provide a safe and healthy space for all residents. The health and comfort of our residents are of the highest priority to us. When environmental issues such as air quality or moisture concerns, arise in our residence halls, Property Management works to address the issues as quickly as possible.

Below, you will find more information on Property Management’s work order process and suggestions to avoid any environmental concerns in your room.

The first and most important step is submitting your work order to Property Management so that your concern may be addressed in a timely manner. If you detect any environmental concerns in your living space, please submit a work order to Property Management by clicking the button below.

Please note: students living at 160 Ross, 191 College, and The Union will report any environmental concerns to property maintenance located at their respective community by calling the front desk or submitting a maintenance work order.

Maintenance Work Order

Response to Environmental Concerns

Upon work order submission, a Property Management Safety & Health staff member is immediately assigned for a complete investigation of the request.

Investigation Procedures

  • Upon the technician’s arrival to the suite/room, a short interview is conducted with the resident to establish the exact nature of the issue.
  • Air quality testing/monitoring is conducted per The Centers for Disease Control guidelines, checking humidity, temperature and dew point.
  • A thorough visual inspection is conducted in all spaces (closets, bathrooms, in and around furniture, etc.) to identify any problem areas that may be present.
  • Corrective measures are initiated to correct any problems that are discovered that may have contributed to the issue.
  • If required, cleaning of all affected areas will be conducted per CDC guidelines by either Property Management staff or remediation contractor.
  • If needed, a follow-up discussion shall be conducted with the resident.
  • If a temporary relocation is recommended, University Housing will assist the student(s) throughout the relocation process.

Note: Depending on the nature of the issues identified, a series of follow-up inspections may be necessary.

Ways to Prevent Environmental Concerns

    • Maintain good housekeeping practices.
    • Remove trash regularly.
    • Clean and dust suite and restrooms on a regular basis.
    • Launder bedding and linens regularly.
    • Always allow wet or damp items to dry thoroughly before storing.
    • Never allow water or wet items to sit on surfaces for long periods.
    • Maintain proper ventilation throughout the suite and restroom as proper air circulation is necessary to provide a healthy indoor environment. Ensure use of restroom exhaust fans during showering or bathing.

Suggested Room Configurations

Suggested Room Configurations

Managing Mold and Mildew

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors. This moisture includes humidity both indoors and outdoors. We have included ways to prevent and control moisture in your residence hall in the section above listed under Ways to Prevent Environmental Concerns.

Resources

Symptoms of Exposure

Symptoms of exposure to certain environmental conditions can be very subjective. Immunocompromised individuals may experience health effects when exposed to certain environmental conditions, and others may not have any symptoms at all. For additional information pertaining to environmental concerns, along with prevention and safety tips, please visit EPA.

Requesting Additional Testing

Additional air quality requests are made through the Department of Property Management by submitting a work order. Additional testing, including outside vendors, must be facilitated through Auburn University.

Last modified: September 11, 2024