What should I do if my bathroom vent is not connected to the outside of the house?

A bathroom vent that doesn't exhaust to the outside is a serious problem that needs immediate attention - it's causing moisture damage to your home's structure and creating conditions for mold growth that can affect your family's health.

When bathroom fans vent into attics, crawl spaces, or wall cavities instead of outside, the humid air condenses on cold surfaces, leading to wood rot, insulation damage, and mold growth. In Ottawa's climate, this problem is particularly severe during our cold winters when the temperature difference between warm, moist bathroom air and cold attic spaces creates heavy condensation. You'll often see signs like peeling paint, musty odors, ice buildup in the attic, or visible mold around the fan area.

The solution requires proper ductwork installation that routes the exhaust through either the roof or an exterior wall. The ductwork should be insulated to prevent condensation inside the ducts, and it must terminate with a proper exterior vent cap that prevents backdrafts and keeps out pests. In Ottawa, roof penetrations need careful sealing due to our freeze-thaw cycles, so many contractors prefer wall terminations when possible. The ductwork should be as short and straight as possible - long runs with multiple bends reduce efficiency significantly.

This work typically requires building permits in Ottawa since it involves structural penetrations and mechanical systems. The Ontario Building Code requires bathroom ventilation to exhaust directly outside, not into attics or other interior spaces. Electrical connections must also meet ESA standards, especially if you're upgrading to a more powerful fan. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) can confirm permit requirements for your specific situation.

Professional installation is strongly recommended because this work involves roof or wall penetrations, electrical connections, and proper sealing against Ottawa's weather conditions. Improper installation can lead to water leaks, ice dams, or inadequate ventilation. The cost typically ranges from $400-$1,200 depending on the complexity of the routing and whether structural modifications are needed.

Don't delay addressing this issue - the longer moisture vents into your home's structure, the more expensive the eventual repairs become. Start by having the extent of any existing damage assessed, then plan the proper ventilation installation. For a free estimate on correcting your bathroom ventilation, contact Justyn Rook Contracting - we handle this type of repair regularly and ensure all work meets Ottawa building codes.