Question: Robert, my name is Clarice. I live in an older home here in Saugus, and I need your help, please. I’m trying to figure out what is causing the horrid smell that is currently in my home. I can’t smell it all of the time, but every once in a while I am inundated with it and it’s disgusting. I’ve looked in every cupboard, on every shelf, behind every appliance and cannot find anything that may have died, but that is my only thought, that it must be this. If I can’t find the source, what do I do? This is unbearable. Thank you, I hope you can help.
— Clarice
Answer: Clarice, do you have an attic? My guess is that you’ve got a dead rodent either there, or perhaps in the furnace area. With current nighttime temps, I’m guessing you’re using your heater/furnace? Check in that area, using a flashlight. I bet you’ll find something there.
If not, access the attic space but use caution and wear a mask, just to protect yourself from dust, especially if this is in fact, the area in question. If a rodent has been up there and there are droppings, the dust is toxic. If you do find that the space is infested, you should call a licensed exterminator for service. You can always call the exterminator first, and have them do the investigation. I hope this helps, best of luck.
Robert Lamoureux has more than 40 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at [email protected].
