The short answer
Find the Moisture Source
Start by looking for obvious signs of water. Check the walls, floors, and ceilings for dark stains, peeling paint, or damp spots. A musty smell often traces back to a slow leak from a pipe, a crack in the foundation, or water seeping through the concrete floor.
You can also place a dry cloth on suspicious areas to see if they feel damp. If you find a leak, you may need a plumber to fix the pipe or a water damage pro to handle the cleanup. Acting quickly helps prevent the mold from spreading further.
- Check corners and baseboards for water stains
- Feel walls and floors for dampness
- Look under sinks and near the water heater
- Inspect window frames for condensation
- Notice any musty smell near vents or ducts
Test the Humidity Level
High humidity in a basement apartment can cause a musty odor even without a visible leak. You can buy a simple hygrometer at a hardware store to measure the moisture in the air. If the humidity stays above 50 percent, mold growth becomes more likely.
To lower humidity, you can use a dehumidifier and keep the space well ventilated. Open windows when the weather is dry, and run exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen. These steps help the air circulate and reduce the dampness that feeds mold.
- Use a hygrometer to track humidity levels
- Run a dehumidifier in the dampest areas
- Open windows on dry days
- Turn on exhaust fans during cooking or showers
- Keep closet doors open to improve airflow
- Avoid drying clothes indoors if possible
Dry Out the Space
Once you control the moisture source, you need to dry out the affected materials. Wet carpet, drywall, and wood can hold moisture for a long time and keep the musty smell alive. You may need to remove damaged flooring or drywall to get the space fully dry.
Structural drying and dehumidification equipment can speed up the process. These machines pull moisture out of the air and from porous materials. If the job is large, local water damage pros can set up the right equipment and monitor the drying progress until the area is properly dry.
Clean Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew need to be cleaned off surfaces to remove the musty odor. For small areas, you can wipe down hard surfaces with a mild detergent and water. Avoid using bleach on porous materials like drywall, because it may not reach the mold roots.
If mold covers a large area or keeps coming back, consider calling a mold professional. They can assess the extent of the growth and recommend safe cleanup methods. Wear gloves and a mask if you clean it yourself, and see a doctor if you feel unwell from the smell or exposure.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Is a musty basement apartment dangerous?
A musty smell often means mold is growing, which can trigger allergies or breathing problems. The risk depends on the type of mold and how sensitive you are. See a doctor if you have symptoms like coughing or sneezing. Keeping the area dry helps reduce the hazard.
Can I fix the musty smell myself?
For minor dampness, you can try improving ventilation and using a dehumidifier. For hidden leaks or large mold growth, you may need a plumber or a water damage pro. Attempting a big cleanup without proper equipment can leave moisture behind.
Will my insurance cover the damage?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if water damage or mold is included. Some policies cover sudden leaks but not long-term humidity problems. Contact your insurance company to ask about your specific situation.