Dominant microbial volatile organic compounds in 23 US homes

► Only low microgram m−3 concentrations of MVOCs prevail in basements generally. ► “C8” MVOCs were generally elevated in homes with detectable MVOCs. ► 2-Octen-1-ol was significantly elevated in non-problematic basements. ► C8 alcohols and ketones were found with molds known to predominate in wet locations. ► A semi-quantitative predictor of mold termed “MOW” can aid in applied mold studies.