by an odor
Near plumbing, windows, or an exterior wall
Those details can make identification much easier.
If the mystery object is close to a source of moisture, the surrounding wall may reveal an important part of the answer.
What If You Suspect a Leak?
Pay particular attention if the mystery appears near:
A bathroom
Kitchen plumbing
A window
A roofline
An exterior wall
An HVAC unit
A basement or other damp area
Look for water stains, bubbling paint, peeling wallpaper, swollen drywall, or a musty smell.
If moisture is
