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bcomplex
Jul 18, 2010, 08:45 AM
I purchased a new house and each time I go over to see it (2wks from being done) the shower in the basement STINKS very BAD, just like ROTTEN eggs, definitely a sewer smell. I am going to close on the house soon and it is about time once they finish to get the inspection. Isn't it possible they may have to fix it properly to stop the smell?

tickle
Jul 18, 2010, 08:50 AM
Yes, I would say you should bring that issue up, fixing the smell. You should not have to buy a new house where the shower stall has not been cleaned well enough by the builder.

Tick

bcomplex
Jul 19, 2010, 02:37 AM
I do not think I was clear. The new construction house has an issue with the shower in the basement. It smell like an open sewer. Does anyone know what could cause this problem? Thank you very much for your help:)

435Studio
Jul 19, 2010, 06:09 AM
Next time you go over run some water in the shower. It may be that the trap in the shower drain is dry allowing the sewer gas to enter the home. If the smell is gone after you fill the trap that may be all it takes...

massplumber2008
Jul 19, 2010, 06:29 AM
Hi all:

I'm betting 435 studio nailed this one... ;)

Most likely the shower trap has dried out... may be other traps, too! Run water at the shower... bet that fixes it!

While you're at it bcomplex, run the water at all fixtures. This will wet the traps and give you a chance to double check the plumbing for issues... just in case anything got missed by the home inspector!

Mark

bcomplex
Jul 19, 2010, 10:04 PM
Thank you everyone. I will give this a try and let everyone know if this fixes it. I just hope it is not just a temperary fix.

speedball1
Jul 20, 2010, 06:51 AM
I just hope it is not just a temperary fix. If you have a fixture or floor drain that's not being used and you wish to make a trap seal that won't evaporate pour a quart of cooking oil or anti freeze in the drain. This will give you a permeate trap seal. Goodl uck, Tom