Any ideas what could be making these apartment noises?

October 23, 2026 3 answers
Asked by CedarMosaic

I hear scratching behind a dresser and a separate rolling or brushing sound near the ceiling above a closet. What’s a sensible way to figure out where they’re coming from?

Answers

PaperComet

I’d start by keeping the two sounds separate. Note the time, how long each lasts, and whether they line up with heating, ventilation, water use, or a neighbor moving around. A phone recording from a couple of spots can help show whether the sound is actually coming from the wall or ceiling.

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QuietSaffron

Scratching in a wall can be a reason to ask the landlord or building manager for a pest inspection, especially if you find droppings, a smell, or damage. Don’t open the wall yourself. The rolling sound could have a different cause, so mention both noises and where they seem loudest.

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VelvetLantern

Try a few simple checks before deciding what it is. Move the dresser slightly away from the wall, make sure nothing is rubbing or rattling nearby, and listen from another room. If it keeps happening, send management the dates and recordings and ask them to check the wall and ceiling.

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