New tenant moved into one of my rooms 2 months ago. Unfortunately, it seems like their room has been smelling like wet dog since the first day they moved in. They didn't report it initially because they thought it was a normal smell to happen, right after a steamcleaning takes place. 2 months later, the place still smells like wet dog.
I think that the previous tenant's dog peed in that room. I am debating whether to get the room steam cleaned again (cost $110), which i did 6 weeks ago, or if I should just re-carpet or re-floor the room (which I think would be $300-$500 for the room). I am thinking to go with the latter option, but with vinyl, because it seems like that will permanently solve the wet dog smell, and also prevent cases where animals or babies pee on the floor.
Investor · Philadelphia, PA · Member since 2015 · 3k+ posts · 3k+ votes
6y
If I was replacing flooring I would probably do the whole level. My places wouldn't look good or feel high class with mismatched flooring. Also your urine issue is in the subfloor now. Make sure you solve the odor problem before you put new flooring down or you will continue to have the smell.
If I was replacing flooring I would probably do the whole level. My places wouldn't look good or feel high class with mismatched flooring. Also your urine issue is in the subfloor now. Make sure you solve the odor problem before you put new flooring down or you will continue to have the smell.
Regarding the comment about the subfloor, it is a ground unit, so the carpet is sitting on top of a carpet pad, which is sitting directly on top of concrete foundation. I assume in this case, the most I could remove is the carpet and the carpet pad, but not the concrete foundation? I’m trying to understand what the subfloor would be in this situation.
Knoxville, TN · Member since 2019 · 111 posts · 57 votes
6y
The smell can permeate concrete, as well. Luckily, using Kilz on it to seal it can fix it (same with wood); you might also treat with a urine remover product (spray on, let soak in and dry).
Downside - an extra day for painting and letting it dry, before putting in new carpet.