The Case of the Mystery Basement Smell: A Rafter Home Advisor Story

Homeownership comes with its fair share of joys—and its fair share of mysteries. One of the things I love most about being a Rafter Home Advisor is getting to know our members, their homes, and the challenges they’ve been facing. Whether it’s a long-standing frustration, an unresolved issue, or just a nagging feeling that something isn’t quite right, we’re here to help homeowners get to the bottom of it. Sometimes, that journey takes us into some unexpected places.

Take, for example, a recent Initial Visit with a new Rafter member. Their home was in great shape, but there was one persistent problem: a bad smell in the basement. Not just any smell—one that had been bothering them since they moved in three years ago. They weren’t alone in their frustrations either. Their pest control company had let them know that the previous homeowners had the same issue. Despite sealing up potential pest entry points and even conducting a smoke test to rule out sewer gases, the mystery remained unsolved.

Digging Deeper—Literally

During the Initial Visit, we discussed the problem and walked through the home together. Based on what seemed to be the strongest and persistent source of the smell, we decided that opening up a small portion of the basement drywall might be the key to finally figuring out what was going on. A few days later, I returned for a project visit—one of the many perks of Rafter membership—and got to work.

As I carefully removed several sections of drywall and insulation, I quickly found evidence of mice activity. This wasn’t a surprise—the homeowners had already battled a persistent rodent problem. But what I didn’t expect to find was a mouse graveyard.

Yes, you read that right. Behind the wall, in two stud bays, was what can only be described as a mass burial site for mice. Dozens of them. Some had clearly been there for a long time. Others? Let’s just say they were more recent arrivals. Why they had all gathered there is anyone’s guess. It’s possible they’d fall and get trapped, or that they had ingested the pest company’s bait and this was their final resting place. Either way, mystery solved!

Problem Solved, Smell Gone

After carefully removing the, uh, residents of the mouse graveyard, I also took out sections of the drywall and studs to ensure no lingering odors remained. Within minutes, the difference was noticeable. The member was thrilled—this was the first real progress made on this issue in years.

Of course, eliminating the source of the smell was just the first step. To prevent future problems, I also sealed off the entry points the mice had been using and recommended pest control companies that specialize in trapping rather than poison—helping to avoid another, well, situation behind the walls. We will remain vigilant and I will continue to monitor the situation on future visits.

Have a Home Mystery of Your Own?

This is just one example of how Rafter helps homeowners tackle frustrating, long-standing problems. We don’t provide canned advice—we consider all possible causes and solutions.

If you’ve been dealing with a home issue that no one seems to have a solution for, let’s talk. Rafter members get customized guidance and hands-on help from a Home Advisor who understands that every home (and homeowner) is unique.

www.rafterhome.com

Dan Figura
Rafter Home Advisor