Smell of cigarette smoke, but not a smoker - mold?

[newbee]

First time looking at purchasing a manufactured home. Unable to afford brand new for the build quality I seek, but instead ran across a used 2017 model. First entry into the home, it smelled of stale/almost bitter? cigarette smoke, but the owner was an elderly man that never smoked, nor any visitors that smoked. I was informed there was a plumbing leak left unattended for an unknown amount of time and the current owner claims to be in the process of replacing near the entire OSB floor decking on 1/2 of the model. I could not see any damage to walls or cabinets, but almost fell through in one bathroom near the shower.

My questions / concerns:

1. Could the smell be of mold? Not sure if replacing the floor and belly insulation will be good enough?

2. Is it possible to replace the flooring underneath the walls, cabinets, showers, etc - w/o actually removing anything sitting on top of the rotting floor? The owner stated it can be done, but I just cannot see how.

3. Should I just run away from this, at a great price, based on the smell - which might be mold and the hopes of the entire one-side of the home floor decking being replaced?

Thanks for any input / insight!

[wispconstantly]

1.
Yes, the smell could indeed be mold. Mold often has a musty, stale odor and can develop in areas with prolonged moisture exposure, such as from an unattended plumbing leak. Simply replacing the floor and insulation might not be sufficient if the mold has spread to other areas. It’s crucial to thoroughly inspect and address any mold issues to prevent health risks and further damage.

2.
Replacing flooring underneath walls, cabinets, and showers without removing them is challenging but possible. It typically involves cutting out the damaged subfloor and sliding new pieces underneath the existing structures. This process requires precision and might not be as effective as a full replacement. Consulting with a professional can provide a clearer assessment of feasibility and potential risks.

3.
Given the potential mold issue and the extensive floor replacement needed, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Here are some considerations:
Inspection: Have a professional inspect the home for mold and structural integrity.
Cost: Evaluate the cost of necessary repairs versus the purchase price.
Health Risks: Consider the potential health risks associated with mold exposure.

If the inspection reveals significant mold or structural issues, it might be wise to reconsider the purchase, even if the price is attractive. Ensuring a safe and healthy living environment should be a priority.

[bettyking]

1. Consider Professional Help: Engage a home inspector who specializes in manufactured homes to assess the condition thoroughly.
2. Check for Mold Testing: If mold is suspected, a mold assessment can provide clarity on the extent of the problem.
3. Evaluate Repair Costs: If you’re still interested, get estimates for the necessary repairs to understand the total investment required.
Ultimately, trust your instincts and ensure you’re making a decision that aligns with your comfort level and financial situation io games

[toastpolenta]

It’s possible the smell is mold from the water damage, and replacing only the floor might not be enough. Repairing underneath walls and fixtures is difficult without removal. Given these concerns, it might be safer to walk away.