Fact, perception, and hypothesis

Type
Visible fact
Example entry
Water stain at the lower trim
Keep it clear by
Recording location and photograph
Type
Sensory observation
Example entry
Musty smell strongest near the left corner
Keep it clear by
Noting time and comparison conditions
Type
Working hypothesis
Example entry
Possible moisture behind finish
Keep it clear by
Labeling it uncertain pending assessment
Type
Action result
Example entry
Odor remained after airing
Keep it clear by
Recording duration and ordinary room use

Evidence fields

  • Room name, date, weather if relevant, and ordinary HVAC or exhaust operation.
  • Exact strongest location and nearby places where odor was not noticed.
  • Visible surface condition, moisture, staining, or damage described without diagnosis.
  • Odor words and a consistent relative intensity rating, not an exposure measurement.
  • Activity before the observation and any safe change made since the previous entry.
  • Photograph references, product names, manuals, or service records connected to the room.

Describe the room as it is

Start with a simple room outline and label doors, windows, plumbing fixtures, returns, supplies, and large furnishings that are actually present. Mark the odor's strongest point with a symbol and areas where it is absent with another. A clear map can show whether the smell follows a wall, floor edge, drain, object, or air outlet. Avoid writing that a cavity or duct is contaminated unless it has been inspected by someone qualified to make that determination.

Separate three columns: what was seen, what was smelled, and what is only a theory. For example, 'dark mark at baseboard' is an observation; 'damp-earth odor near corner' is a sensory description; 'leak behind wall' is a hypothesis. Record the time and conditions so another person can repeat a comparison. The sheet should help narrow a question, not persuade anyone that one explanation is already certain.

Include changes already attempted and the result after the room returned to normal use. If a cleaner was applied, note the product and surface; if a fan ran, note the duration and whether doors or windows changed. Keep labels and photographs. Stop collecting evidence and leave if there is a suspected gas, burning, smoke, or harmful chemical warning. Avoid lifting flooring, opening wall cavities, or touching unknown residues to make the sheet more complete.

Common questions

Should the sheet name the likely chemical or organism?

Only if reliable testing or documentation identifies it. Sensory descriptions alone do not establish contaminant identity.

Can I send the sheet to an assessor?

Yes, after removing personal details not needed for the conversation. It can help focus the review but does not replace direct inspection.

General information for Lowry, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.