Ask the same questions of every provider you talk to, and ask for the important answers in writing. The goal is not to catch anyone out. It is to learn whether the provider understands that this house is going on the market, and whether the plan works backward from the listing date rather than forward from whenever they have an opening.
Listing agents can ask these on a seller's behalf. If the seller has moved away, as often happens with estate and relocation sales, agree who will be the single point of contact before the first call.
About the assessment and scope
- Will you visit before quoting, and what will you check during the visit?
- How will you identify the source of each odor rather than treating the whole house the same way?
- Will the written scope list each source and what will be done to it: removal, cleaning, sealing or treatment?
- What could you find during the work that would change the scope, and how will you tell me before doing it?
- Which parts of this job need another trade, such as a plumber, HVAC technician or painter?
- Do technicians hold any industry certification relevant to odor control, and from which organization?
About timing, safety and the listing
- Can the work be finished, ventilated and rechecked before my paint, flooring and photo dates?
- Does any step require the house to be empty, and for how long including ventilation?
- Do you use ozone or add fragrance? If so, why, and what will the house smell like afterward?
- What should be removed from the house beforehand, and what can stay?
- How do you handle lockbox access and coordination with the listing agent?
- What will you provide afterward: a written summary, photos, invoices?
- If odor is noticed again at the first showings, what happens next?
Answers that suggest a good fit, and answers to probe
| Reassuring | Worth probing |
|---|---|
| Wants to see the house and ask questions before quoting | Quotes a whole-house fogging or ozone treatment sight unseen |
| Names likely sources and explains how they will be confirmed | Cannot say what is causing the odor |
| Asks for the listing date unprompted | Relies on fragrance to finish the job |
| Explains vacancy and re-entry in plain terms | Is vague about how long the house must be empty |
| Offers a written scope and summary | Avoids putting the scope in writing |
General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.