Why is there a strong smell coming from my new bathroom renovation?

Strong odors after a bathroom renovation typically indicate sewer gas leaks, off-gassing from new materials, or moisture issues that need immediate attention.

The most concerning possibility is sewer gas infiltration — that distinctive rotten egg smell means harmful gases are entering your home. This happens when P-traps dry out, wax rings under toilets fail, or vent pipes aren't properly connected. In New Brunswick, all plumbing work requires a licensed plumber and TIS inspection, so if this was recent work, contact your contractor immediately and call TIS at 1-888-659-3222 to report the issue.

New material off-gassing is also common and usually less dangerous but still problematic. Fresh paint, adhesives, caulking, vinyl flooring, and composite materials release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for weeks after installation. This creates that "new construction" chemical smell. The solution is aggressive ventilation — run exhaust fans continuously and open windows when weather permits (challenging during New Brunswick winters, but essential for air quality).

Moisture-related odors develop quickly in our humid climate, especially if vapor barriers were compromised during renovation or if the exhaust fan isn't properly vented to the exterior. Many older New Brunswick homes have exhaust fans that dump into the attic instead of outside — a code violation that creates mold and odor problems.

Check your P-traps first — run water in all drains for 30 seconds to refill the water seals. If the smell persists, examine the toilet base for wetness or movement, which indicates a failed wax ring. For chemical odors, increase ventilation and consider an air purifier with activated carbon filters.

When to call a professional: Persistent sewer gas smells require immediate plumbing attention. Any licensed New Brunswick plumber can diagnose and fix these issues, and the work must pass TIS inspection. Don't ignore these odors — sewer gas contains methane and hydrogen sulfide, which are both health hazards and potentially explosive.

If your contractor is unresponsive and the smell suggests a code violation, contact TIS directly. They can investigate whether proper permits were obtained and inspections completed.

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