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What Is Sick Building Syndrome and What Causes It?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Common Symptoms

When you spend time in a building with sick building syndrome, you might notice headaches, eye irritation, a dry cough, fatigue, or trouble concentrating. These symptoms often appear while you are inside and improve shortly after you step outside. The pattern matters because it points to the building itself as the trigger, not a virus or a chronic condition.

If symptoms persist even when you are away from the building, or if they include fever or breathing trouble, see a doctor. That step helps rule out other causes. Keep a simple log of when symptoms start and stop, so you can share useful details with a medical professional.

  • Headaches or dizziness
  • Eye, nose, or throat irritation
  • Dry or itchy skin
  • Fatigue or difficulty focusing
  • Nausea or sensitivity to odors

Main Causes

Poor ventilation is a leading cause. When fresh air intake is low, indoor pollutants build up. Sources include off-gassing from new furniture, paints, cleaning products, and office equipment. High humidity or water leaks can also create damp conditions that encourage mold growth, which some people react to.

Temperature and lighting issues can add to discomfort, though they are less direct causes. In many cases, a combination of factors is at work. Identifying the specific trigger in your home or workplace may take some detective work, but it is often the first step toward relief.

  • Inadequate fresh air supply
  • Volatile organic compounds from materials
  • Mold or mildew from moisture problems
  • Dust and airborne particles
  • Poor temperature or humidity control

How It Differs from Building-Related Illness

Sick building syndrome is different from building-related illness. With sick building syndrome, symptoms are vague and no specific disease is diagnosed. With building-related illness, a clear medical condition, like Legionnaires' disease or asthma triggered by mold, is linked to the building. That distinction affects how you approach the problem.

For building-related illness, medical treatment is essential. For sick building syndrome, the focus is usually on improving indoor conditions. If you suspect mold or water damage is involved, addressing the moisture source matters. A mold professional can assess the situation and recommend safe cleanup steps.

Steps to Improve Indoor Air

Start by increasing ventilation. Open windows when weather permits, and make sure exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms work properly. Maintain your HVAC system and change filters regularly. Reduce chemical sources by choosing low-VOC paints and products, and store solvents and cleaners in sealed containers.

Control humidity to keep it between 30 and 50 percent. Fix leaks promptly, whether from pipes, roofs, or windows. If you notice standing water or damp materials, dry them within a day or two. For larger water issues, local water damage pros can help with drying and cleanup.

When to Get Professional Help

If you have tried improving ventilation and removing obvious pollutants but symptoms continue, consider a professional assessment. An indoor air quality specialist can test for pollutants like mold, carbon monoxide, or VOCs. That testing helps pinpoint the cause so you can take targeted action.

For water damage or visible mold growth, bring in a water damage or mold professional. They can identify the source of moisture and recommend safe removal. If you live in Bellingham, keep an eye on damp areas during the wet season, as moisture problems can develop quietly behind walls or under floors.

  • Persistent symptoms that match the building
  • Visible mold or musty odors
  • Recent water leaks or flooding
  • New furnishings or renovations with strong smells
  • HVAC systems that seem underperforming

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Frequently asked questions

Can sick building syndrome affect your home?

Yes, it can happen in any building, including homes. The same causes apply: poor ventilation, high humidity, mold, or chemical off-gassing. Symptoms often improve when you spend time outside. Fixing ventilation and moisture issues usually helps.

How quickly do symptoms appear after entering a building?

Symptoms can start within hours of entering the building and may worsen the longer you stay. They often subside shortly after you leave. The timing varies by person and by the specific pollutant levels in the building.

Is mold always the cause of sick building syndrome?

No, mold is one possible cause, but not the only one. Poor ventilation, chemical emissions, dust, and temperature extremes also contribute. A professional assessment can help identify which factors are present in your situation.

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