Dead Animal in Walls: Odor Damage and Cleanup Process

The first step is to find where the smell is strongest. Walk through each room and sniff along baseboards, around electrical outlets, and near vents. The odor often concentrates near the animal's entry point or a warm spot, like a heating duct or appliance.

If you can't pinpoint it, a moisture meter or an inspection camera can help. A basic borescope lets you look inside wall cavities through a small hole. If the animal is in a crawlspace or attic, you may need to search there with a flashlight and a mask.

• Sniff along walls and corners for the strongest odor
• Check behind appliances and near vents for warmth
• Use a borescope to see inside wall gaps
• Look for entry points like chewed holes or gaps
• Check crawlspace and attic areas if accessible
• Wear gloves and a mask when searching

After the carcass is gone, clean the affected area thoroughly. Use a disinfectant that kills bacteria and viruses, like a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercial enzyme cleaner. Apply it to the wall cavity, studs, and any insulation that touched the animal.

Remove and discard any soaked insulation or drywall. If the animal was in a crawlspace, you may need to clean the soil or gravel beneath. Let the area dry completely before sealing the wall back up. A dehumidifier can speed up drying and reduce lingering moisture.

• Mix a bleach solution or use an enzyme cleaner
• Wipe down all surfaces in the cavity
• Discard any contaminated insulation or drywall
• Use a dehumidifier or fan to dry the area
• Check for staining on wood or drywall
• Dispose of cleaning materials safely

If the animal is deep inside a wall or floor, or if the odor won't go away after your efforts, it's time to call local water damage pros. They have the tools and experience to locate and remove animals safely, and they can clean and deodorize the area effectively.

The cost depends on how hard the animal is to reach and how much damage is done. It often ranges from $200 to $800, but it could be more if walls need to be opened and repaired. The pros can also handle related issues like mold, which may appear if moisture is present.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if animal removal and odor cleanup are included, though many policies exclude pest-related damage.