April 2017
Strong and permeating odours are one of the more frequent complaints in condo buildings.
Smells do not remain contained in a suite. They can permeate hallways and elevators where they may be offensive to other residents.
Odours typically arise from cooking, pets and smoking. When odours rise to the level of resident complaints and become a “nuisance” to condo residents, condo management may be required to act.
Some nuisances are a part of everyday life while others are particularly burdensome.
Any easy first step in resolution of odour complaints is to make the suite occupants aware of complaints. They may be able and willing to take actions to minimize the impact on others.
Samantha Dubois of SDA Building Services provides tips on controlling odours:
- Use in-suite fans on a regular basis and particularly when cooking
- Open windows to provide odours with an alternate escape route
- Keep suite doors closed except when entering or exiting a suite
- Do not allow trash, recycling or organics to accumulate in a suite
- Replace filters more frequently
- Utilize air fresheners and odour controlling products
