Bird Droppings in the Attic

[Scott Weaner]

I recently had one of my newly acquired units inspected by the township. Among several minor issues that the inspector found, he found bird droppings in the attic. It seems that one of the gable vents did not have a screen. Anyway, the inspector wants the insulation completely replaced, which could be quite costly.

My feeling is that this really is not a health issue. My reading on the subject notes that if the area is not typically used by people, the risk is minuscule. The problems usually come when the droppings are in contact with soil and moisture so that the fungi can grow and multiply. I fact, one of the documents from my state, New Jersey, mention that leaving the situation alone could very well be the safest strategy. I also feel that they typically do not inspect the attic, but this attic does have pull-down attic stairs.

Has anyone had to deal with this issues? Any thoughts as to the best way to handle it?