How a grow odor differs from smoke
Colorado allows adults to grow a limited number of cannabis plants at home, and both the state and Denver set limits and rules on how and where. Landlords and associations can also restrict growing in leases and bylaws. Within those rules, some residents grow in a closet, a tent in a corner, or a spare room. Flowering plants release strong terpene compounds, the same family of aromatic oils that give pine, citrus and skunk their smells. Unlike smoke, there is no burned tar or ash, but the oils settle into drywall, carpet and fabric over months.
The bigger concern is moisture. Plants release water into the air, and grows are often run at higher humidity than a normal home. In a small closet with poor ventilation, that moisture can lead to mold on drywall, in carpet, or on the back of nearby furniture. Warehouse conversions with cool exterior brick walls can see condensation where warm, humid air meets the masonry. A musty note mixed with the skunky smell is a sign that moisture damage may be part of the picture.
What to check after a grow is removed
- Inspect the grow location.Look at walls, ceiling, carpet and baseboards for staining, swelling, peeling paint or visible mold growth. Check behind and under where the tent or equipment sat.
- Look for holes and modifications.Grows sometimes involve vent holes cut into walls or ceilings, ducting through closets, or extra hooks. These may need repair and can also connect odor to other spaces.
- Check electrical.Note any outlets, power strips or cords that show heat damage. Have an electrician evaluate anything unusual.
- Measure humidity.An inexpensive hygrometer tells you if the space is still damp. Denver's dry air usually brings humidity down quickly once the grow is gone, unless there is hidden wet material.
- Clean surfaces.Once the area is dry and any damaged material is addressed, wash walls and hard surfaces to remove the oily terpene film.
Deciding what to do with affected materials
- IfDrywall is stained but firm and dryThenClean, then seal with an odor-blocking primer and repaint.
- IfDrywall is soft, swollen or has mold growthThenTreat it as a moisture and mold problem first; damaged sections are usually cut out and replaced.
- IfCloset carpet smells strongly and the pad is stainedThenReplacing carpet and pad in a small closet is often simpler than trying to treat it.
- IfOdor has spread to the rest of the unitThenTreat the whole space after the grow area itself has been cleaned or repaired.
- IfYou rent and found this when moving inThenDocument it with photos and tell the landlord in writing before doing any work.
For landlords and buyers
If a past grow is suspected, ask direct questions and inspect closets carefully. Patched holes in closet ceilings, unusual outlets, heavy-duty hooks and fresh paint confined to one closet can all be clues. A home inspector or mold professional can help evaluate moisture damage, and a real estate attorney can advise on what must be disclosed.
General information for RiNo, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.