PET ODORS....REALLY BAD

[David Soest]

Has anyone ever bought a house with REALLY bad pet odors?

I looked online and found a good reviewed product but was wondering if anything will work. Its so bad you can hardly walk in the house.

If I have to remove the drywall I'll have to pass but how could the smell actually get into the drywall?

I was thinking maybe some of the plywood flooring but a total gut to the studs??

Thanks in advance for any advise.

[Christian Bors]

I wouldn't over react.  Pet odor is a common occurrence in this business.  It helps investors get the discounts that are required to turn a profit since it turns most buyers off.  I have dealt with pet urine several times, some cases have been severe.  First, remove all carpet and pads.  You will notice quite a difference as soon as that is gone.  Hire someone to clean the ductwork. The pet smell will linger in the vents.  After removal of the flooring, evaluate the subfloor.  Concrete is the hardest to remove, however if you buy a good sealant, such as Kilz oil based original or Binz (very expensive), it can seal floors quite effectively.  If the subfloors are not rotten, you can sand them down then apply Kilz etc.... Several coats may be necessary.  If the subfloors are horrendous, just rip out and install new.  If the urine is in the drywall, simply remove the bottom.  Drywall is cheap and is easily replaceable.  Also, you can invest in an Ozone Generator to aid in the removal of smell.  These machines kill the bacteria in the air.  I recently just purchased one and am trying it as we speak. Some people swear by them.