How to Remove a Dead Animal From Behind a Wall

Every home has its own distinct smell, but none is as bad as the smell of a dead animal rotting behind the wall. Even something as small as a mouse can pack a powerful punch as it slowly decomposes. To completely get rid of that awful stench, you're going to need to remove the dead animal from behind the wall. While not an extremely difficult job, it will take some patience and detective work on your part to pinpoint the location.

Studfinder
Tape
Drill with 1-inch drill bit
Telescopic camera
Drywall saw
Rubber gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Try to pinpoint the location of the dead animal by sniffing along the wall to identify where the smell is the strongest. A dead animal will most likely have fallen to the bottom of the wall, so smell along the baseboard.
- 2
  Use a stud finder on the wall where you think the animal is to locate where the studs are behind the drywall or plaster, then mark the spots with tape.
- 3
  Drill a hole in the wall in between where the two studs are. The hole should be approximately 1 foot above the bottom of the wall.
- 4
  Insert the end of the camera in the wall and confirm there is a dead animal in there. If there is no animal, find the next stud, drill a hole as before and look for the dead animal until you find it.
- 5
  Use a drywall saw to cut a 4-inch-square hole in the wall where the animal is located. Put on the rubber gloves and stick your hand in the wall to remove the animal and throw it away.

How to Replace a Door Knob Hole in Drywall

How to Drill Into an Interior Brick Wall

Wall Repairs