Who to Call to Identify a Smell in Your House

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

When you are unsure who to call to identify a smell in your house, a home inspector is a strong first step. Inspectors recognize common odor sources and know when to bring in a plumber, electrician, or pest control professional to fix the root issue. 

Use this guide to understand when to hire each pro and what to expect from them.

Benefits of Hiring a Home Inspector to Identify a Smell in Your House

A home inspector is the best first call when you cannot pinpoint the source of an odor. They know the common household issues and the stinkiest culprits, and they can advise on next steps or refer the right specialist. Acting quickly reduces the chance of serious damage.

Here are some of the top reasons to hire a local home inspector:

• Pinpoints unknown odor sources efficiently across the home

• Recognizes common issues immediately from experience

• Brings or recommends the right specialist to fix problems

• Uses tools to detect moisture, wiring issues, and air leaks

• Conducts air tests to check for mold spores

• Employs infrared cameras to locate hidden moisture

• Uses multimeters to identify faulty circuits and wiring

• Checks for visible signs of pests and mold growth

• Provides a clear plan to resolve the underlying issue

• Helps you act fast to limit potential damage

Can I Hire a Different Pro to Identify a Smell in My House?

You can hire a specialized pro based on the odor:

• If you smell sewage, call a plumber who can diagnose and repair plumbing or sewer issues. 

• If you notice burning or fishy odors, shut off the power and call an electrician due to fire hazards. 

• Ammonia or decay suggests pests, so it’s best to call pest control. 

• If you suspect a gas leak (rotten eggs), evacuate and call your gas company’s emergency line.

Calling a specialist can save on inspection costs. If the odor points to a plumbing issue, consider a local plumber to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

How Do Home Inspectors Investigate Odors?

Home inspectors follow a systematic process to identify sources of odor and recommend repairs:

• Ask targeted questions about the smell’s type (fishy, pungent, metallic, musty) and its pattern (for example, when it rains or when an appliance runs).

• Inspect with specialized equipment:

  • Infrared camera to detect moisture

  • Photoionization detector to identify organic compounds

  • Smoke device to find drafts and air leaks

  • Air tests for mold spores

  • Multimeter to find broken circuits or faulty wiring

• Look for visible signs of pests or mold.

• Share findings and recommend the right specialist to resolve the underlying issue.

How Much Does Identifying a Smell in Your House Cost?

A home inspection costs $340 on average and varies with the size of your home. This cost covers expert investigation and the tools needed to pinpoint the source. If you already know the likely source—such as sewer odors, burning smells, or pest-related odors—calling a specialized pro first can sometimes reduce inspection costs. Total spending depends on whether follow-up repairs are needed and which specialist handles the fix.