What sellers should know first

What it is
A gas used under controlled conditions to oxidize odor compounds in air and on surfaces
Who can be inside
No people or animals during treatment and ventilation
What it does not replace
Removing sources such as soaked pad, residue film or a damp crawl space
Who sets timing
The provider, based on the space and the product label; get the details in writing

Preparing the house

Requirements vary by provider and product. These are the items sellers are usually asked about.

  • Arrange somewhere for everyone in the household to stay
  • Remove houseplants and any live animals, including fish tanks
  • Remove or seal food, medications and personal care products if asked
  • Open closets, cabinets and interior doors so the treatment reaches them
  • Ask whether valuable artwork, instruments or electronics should be removed
  • Confirm what to do with the HVAC: run the fan, shut it off, or leave settings to the provider
  • Tell the listing agent and pause showings and lockbox access
  • Post the provider's warning notices on entry doors if supplied

How the window usually unfolds

Before the day
Source work completed. Written instructions received covering preparation, dwell time, ventilation and re-entry.
Treatment day
The provider sets up, confirms the house is empty and starts the treatment. Entry doors are secured.
Dwell period
The treatment stays in the closed house for the time the provider specifies. Nobody enters.
Ventilation
The provider ventilates and confirms the space is safe for re-entry according to their procedure.
Re-entry
Household returns. Windows can be opened. The house is rechecked with doors closed before paint or staging.

Questions to ask before booking

  1. Why is a whole-house treatment needed after the source work, and what will it address that cleaning did not?
  2. How long must the house be empty, start to finish, including ventilation?
  3. How is the house checked before anyone is allowed back in?
  4. Are there materials in this house that could be affected, such as certain metals, fabrics or artwork?
  5. Will the house smell of anything afterward, and for how long?
  6. What happens if odor is still present at the recheck?

General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.