On properties contaminated with volatile chemicals, such as fuels and solvents, vapors can potentially migrate from the water table, through the soil, and into buildings. Because recent studies show that the potential for vapor intrusion into buildings has been underestimated in the past, most contaminated sites must undergo testing to determine whether a vapor intrusion pathway exists.

In New York, if groundwater within 100 feet of a building is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), then sub-slab sampling and indoor air sampling must be completed for that building.

Conrad Geoscience performs vapor intrusion sampling and evaluation. A complicating factor in such evaluations is the potential for target compounds to be present inside the building from usage of fuels, cleaning agents, and other common sources of VOCs. A further complication is that differences in building construction and ventilation can make indoor air sample results misleading.

For these reasons, vapor intrusion evaluations include both indoor air sampling and sub-slab vapor sampling. Ambient outdoor air is also sampled.

To produce reliable results, the sample collection process must be carefully planned and executed using specialized tools and materials.

For information about the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency vapor intrusion policy:

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For information about New York State’s vapor intrusion policy:

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