Your House Stinks! Get an Indoor Air Quality Check

Ivan Mose
Founder and CEO, Certified
Master Inspector

A home inspector kneeling on a hardwood floor while opening a case of air quality testing equipment, representing an indoor air quality inspection

What’s That Smell?

Every home has its own “signature scent”—from freshly baked cookies to that familiar pet aroma. While most household smells are harmless, unusual or persistent odours can be early signs of poor indoor air quality (IAQ).

August is especially tricky: high humidity, closed windows, and active HVAC systems can trap pollutants inside, impacting your family’s health.

A woman sneezing into a tissue while sitting indoors, illustrating respiratory symptoms caused by poor indoor air quality

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

Modern homes are built to be energy-efficient, but that airtight design can trap pollutants, allergens, and moisture. Over time, this creates a buildup of contaminants like:

  • VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
  • Mol
  • Carbon monoxide (CO)
  • Formaldehyde
A close-up view of mold spores growing on a surface, highlighting a common indoor air quality hazard that can affect the health of home occupants
A woman lying in bed covering her face with her hands, depicting headaches and fatigue caused by poor indoor air quality in the home

Signs that something’s off? If you notice these symptoms returning shortly after entering your home, your indoor air could be the culprit:

  • Headaches
  • Runny nose or watery eyes
  • Irritated throat
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Fatigue

Warning Signs to Watch For
Some red flags you shouldn’t ignore:

  • Musty, stale, or chemical-like odours
  • Low air movement or “stuffy” air
  • Dirty or malfunctioning HVAC equipment
  • Excess moisture or visible mold growth
  • Cracks in flue pipes or chimneys
Old, rusted industrial HVAC ventilation ductwork on the exterior of a building, representing poorly maintained air systems that can negatively impact indoor air quality

What Mose Home Inspection Tests For

We offer comprehensive IAQ testing in homes, condos, and commercial spaces across Quebec. Here’s what we assess:

  • Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) – High levels indicate poor ventilation.
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO) – A deadly gas from combustion appliances.
  • Humidity, Dew Point & Temperature – Can indicate mold risk.
  • VOCs – From paints, cleaning supplies, furniture and flooring.
  • Mould – Even hidden mold can release airborne toxins.
  • Formaldehyde – Common in composite wood and soft furnishings.

For more on indoor air quality, read:

Government of Canada – Indoor Air Quality
EPA – Guide to Indoor Air Quality

A worker wearing a face mask and coughing while crouching near large industrial HVAC units, illustrating respiratory health risks from poor air quality

7. Embrace Natural Light (Daylighting)

Install skylights or light tubes to brighten rooms without flipping a switch. Use light shelves and clerestory windows to bounce daylight deeper into the home.

A woman sitting by a large window with bright natural sunlight streaming into the room, illustrating the concept of embracing natural light and daylighting in a home

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Every 2–3 years, or sooner if symptoms appear.

Yes. Testing is non-invasive and safe for everyone.

While we don’t offer HVAC system inspections, we do identify air quality issues related to air circulation and moisture.

Conclusion

If your “home sweet home” feels off — stuffy, musty, or overly humid — don’t ignore it. IAQ issues can be subtle but impact your health and comfort long-term.

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