Have you ever noticed a strange odor in your home but can’t seem to identify the source? There are a few common culprits that might be to blame. Here’s a look at some of the most common causes of strange odors in your home.

Rotten Egg Smell

A sulfuric or “rotten egg” smell in your home could be due to a natural gas leak. Gas leaks are hazardous and should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a gas leak, open all the windows in your home and evacuate the premises immediately. Do not turn any lights on or off, and do not use any appliances, phones, or anything else that could create a spark. Once you are safely away from the house, call your gas company, and they can shut off the gas and make repairs.

Smoky Smell

An improperly ventilated fireplace or chimney often causes a smoky smell in your home. If you use your fireplace regularly, have it inspected and cleaned at least once a year to prevent a build-up of soot and debris. You should also make sure that your fireplace damper is open when you are using the fireplace and closed when you’re not to prevent heat loss and odors from coming into your home. Of course, you’ll also want to make sure that nothing is on fire.

Musty Smell

A musty or mildewy smell is often caused by excessive moisture in the air. This can be due to high humidity levels, leaks, or flooding. You’ll need to address the underlying moisture problem to eliminate the musty odor. Be sure to repair any leaks and dry out any wet areas promptly. You can also use a dehumidifier to help reduce the moisture in the air.

“Permanent Marker”-Like Odors in the Home

The smell of permanent markers is often caused by VOCs (volatile organic compounds) off-gassing from new furniture, paint, carpeting, or other building materials. You’ll need to ventilate the area well to get rid of these odors. Open windows and doors and use fans to help circulate the air. The smell should dissipate within a few days to a week.

Pet Odors in the Home

If you have pets, they may be the source of strange odors in your home. Be sure to clean up any pet accidents promptly and wash your bedding regularly. Consider investing in an air purifier to help remove pet odors from the air.

These are just a few of the most common causes of strange odors in your home. If you can’t identify the source of a smell or the odor is powerful, you should contact a professional for help. A professional can locate the source of the odor and help you get rid of it for good.

Rhode Island Real Estate Inspection Services provides home inspections to customers in Rhode Island. Contact us to request our services.