Microbial volatile organic compounds, abbreviated mVOCs, are compounds released by microorganisms. Some compounds produced by mold contribute to a musty smell. The EPA mold course explains that a moldy odor warrants investigation.
What an odor does not tell you
A smell alone does not identify the organism, the extent of hidden damage or a person's exposure. Avoid treating an odor description as a laboratory result or a medical diagnosis.
Preparing for an odor investigation
Record where and when the odor is noticeable, any leak history and whether recent cleaning or painting changed it. Ask the assessor how moisture sources and affected materials will be investigated. Fragrance can change the smell without resolving its source.
Read about odor investigation and mold resources.