What is typical for Sunnyside hosts
Sunnyside's blocks are lined with early-1900s bungalows and small brick homes, many now updated, plus newer duplexes and accessory dwelling units built behind existing houses. Rentals tend to be whole homes, basement suites and small backyard units rather than condo towers.
Basements and crawlspaces bring the musty and drain smells common in older homes. Detached garages converted or shared with guests can smell of oil, paint or stored items. Backyard units are small, so cooking and bathroom moisture affect the whole space quickly unless fans are strong and vented outside.
Parts of the area sit near I-70 and rail and industrial corridors, so on some days outdoor smells drift in when windows are open. Hosts should know which smells come from outside before blaming the unit or a guest.
Sunnyside at a glance
- Location
- North of West 38th Avenue and Highland, south of I-70, between Federal Boulevard and I-25.
- Housing
- Bungalows, small brick homes, newer duplexes and backyard ADUs.
- Common rentals
- Whole homes, basement suites and small detached units.
- Outdoor factors
- Highway and industrial areas nearby can affect outdoor air on some days.
Unit type and what to watch
| Unit type | Watch for | Turnover habit |
|---|---|---|
| Basement suite | Musty air, dry floor drain, damp carpet | Run drains, dehumidify in summer |
| Backyard ADU | Cooking and shower moisture in a small space | Run hood and fan, open windows during cleaning |
| Older whole home | Old ducts, crawlspace smells | Check the filter and lower level |
| Unit next to a garage | Fuel, oil or paint smells | Keep the connecting door sealed and closed |
Common questions
Should windows stay closed in a Sunnyside rental?
Not necessarily. On most days airing out helps. Check the outdoor air before a long airing during turnovers, and keep a purifier on hand.
Do backyard units need a range hood?
A range hood that vents outside, or at least a strong exhaust fan near the cooktop, keeps cooking smells from filling a small unit and the bedding in it.
Can a garage smell reach a basement suite?
Yes, through shared walls, doors and ductwork. Keep fuel, paint and solvents out of attached or connected garages, and seal and close the connecting door.
What is the first check when a Sunnyside basement suite smells?
Run water in every drain, including any floor drain, then look for damp along exterior walls and under rugs.
General information for LoHi, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.