Hi,
I’ve moved into a newly built apartment (student dorm), so it’s basically a single room with a small attached bathroom. Unfortunately, my room is located right above the entrance, where a lot of smoking happens frequently. Now I have the problem that when the windows are closed, a strong smell of cigarette smoke comes into my room. Since everything is relatively new, I assumed that the window seals are still effective, and I suspected these “trickle ventilator” slots above the windows. I have two of them directly above the windows, each with a small dial that’s supposed to let me limit the airflow. I turned both dials to the closed position, but the smell is still there, and sometimes I feel a slight draft, although I’m not sure if I’m just imagining that.
My question is whether you think it’s okay if I just tape over the slots to see if the smell goes away. Would that pose a significant mold risk? I’m really getting desperate and would appreciate any advice!
Best regards
I’ve moved into a newly built apartment (student dorm), so it’s basically a single room with a small attached bathroom. Unfortunately, my room is located right above the entrance, where a lot of smoking happens frequently. Now I have the problem that when the windows are closed, a strong smell of cigarette smoke comes into my room. Since everything is relatively new, I assumed that the window seals are still effective, and I suspected these “trickle ventilator” slots above the windows. I have two of them directly above the windows, each with a small dial that’s supposed to let me limit the airflow. I turned both dials to the closed position, but the smell is still there, and sometimes I feel a slight draft, although I’m not sure if I’m just imagining that.
My question is whether you think it’s okay if I just tape over the slots to see if the smell goes away. Would that pose a significant mold risk? I’m really getting desperate and would appreciate any advice!
Best regards
Porselll schrieb:
If I cover the slots now, maybe the bathroom fan will help? It runs for about 5 minutes every time the light has been on, which probably doesn't help much, but if I don’t do something about the smell, I’m going slowly crazy :/ Warning! The fan needs air supply through the slots. So if the fan turns on, you would actually have to open a window. However, this will likely bring the smell back inside.
Otherwise, the fan won’t help with the odor.
How about asking the smokers to smoke in front of the house?
Yes, I had already considered the exhaust fan in the bathroom, but there is also a slight draft coming from the light switch in the bathroom. However, I’m not sure if that would be enough. Unfortunately, the dormitory is a large complex made up of four connected buildings, with around 75 units in total, so I don’t think I can reach all of them. A rent reduction could be an option, but I don’t think I want to risk my dormitory spot because the overall housing situation is very poor.
lastdrop schrieb:
Cigarette smoke can justify a rent reduction (for examples, see the rent reduction table). Just try making a claim with the student services and pay less. I bet you’ll get a quick response...Porselll schrieb:
A rent reduction could be considered, but I think I don’t want to risk my dorm place because the overall housing situation is terrible.The student services will know that and won’t delay, someone else will be happy to take the spot...
I can totally relate; it would really annoy me too.
I would probably look for another room – maybe someone is willing to swap with you, perhaps a smoker who doesn’t mind? Alternatively: apply for a different room in the complex at the next possible opportunity.
Yes, the rent is unfortunately unbeatable, and changing rooms is not easy. If I wanted to switch to another room now, I would have to pay a €150 fee. I think I will try sealing the gaps. Now in summer, when students stand outside smoking until 3 a.m., I really can’t sleep otherwise. I have a large air purifier in my room and I might also get a hygrometer. I hope to manage the humidity level this way. After showering, I always leave the windows open first, so hopefully that will work out.
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