Why is it important to keep ventilation intakes away from property lines?

Keeping ventilation intakes away from property lines is primarily important to avoid contamination. This practice helps ensure that the air being drawn into the ventilation system is as clean as possible. Property lines can be close to various sources of pollutants, such as vehicle emissions, industrial activities, or agricultural operations. When intakes are positioned too close to these potential sources, there is a higher risk that the air entering the building could carry harmful contaminants, leading to poor indoor air quality and health issues for occupants.

Proper placement of ventilation intakes also contributes to compliance with health standards and building codes, which aim to protect occupants from exposure to harmful substances. By maintaining a safe distance from property lines, the risk of drawing in polluted air is significantly reduced, thereby fostering a healthier living or working environment.