Vapor Intrusion
What is Vapor Intrusion?
Chemicals from places like refineries, gas stations, landfills and dry cleaners can contaminate nearby soil and groundwater. When chemical vapors travel from contaminated soil and groundwater into the indoor air of homes and buildings, this is called vapor intrusion. Vapor intrusion may cause health problems depending on the chemical and level of exposure.
How Do I Know if My Area Has Vapor Intrusion?
If your area has known vapor intrusion, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has likely reached out to local home and building owners for permission to do free vapor intrusion testing. The EPA may reach out to home and building owners by mail, phone, or in person.
You can check if there is known vapor intrusion in your area by calling the EPA Hotline at 1-800-533-3508.
What is Vapor Intrusion Testing?
With permission of the home or building owner, the EPA can install a free vapor intrusion testing system. The testing system is a small canister placed inside the building for a short period of time. If vapor intrusion is found, the EPA may ask the home or building owner for permission to install a free vapor intrusion removal system.
What is Vapor Intrusion Removal?
With permission of the home or building owner, the EPA can install a free vapor intrusion removal system. The system is non-intrusive and helps protect the health of people in the building from vapor intrusion exposure. A small increase in monthly electricity costs may occur.
What Else Should I Know About Vapor Intrusion Testing and Removal?
Vapor intrusion testing and removal is completely managed by the EPA and is a quick and easy process. Home or building owners only need to provide contact information and available times for installation and removal. Learn more about the vapor intrusion testing and removal process by watching the video at the top of the page.
Vapor Intrusion and Your Health
Exposure to vapor intrusion can cause serious health problems. The severity of health problems depends on the chemical, how much of the chemical you come into contact with, at what levels, and for how long. If you have health concerns, talk to your doctor or call the Texas Poison Center Network: 1-800-222-1222.
Learn More About Vapor Intrusion
Vapor Intrusion
One-Pager - English
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Vapor Intrusion
One-Page Spanish
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