One woman was left gobsmacked after discovering why brown stains kept reappearing on her ceiling.
Unsightly dark marks are often attributed to mould, which is extremely common during the colder months as Brits struggle to keep their house well ventilated and warm. It is important to tackle mould as soon as you spot spores forming, as it can contribute to a whole host of health issues including asthma and respiratory infections.
However, for one renter, her problem keeps coming back, and can't be solved with any type of cleaning product.
Taking to Reddit, the anonymous woman showed how two unusual-shaped brown stains had started to show on her apartment's ceiling that don't feel wet to the touch. She says she had asked her upstairs neighbour if the block's maintenance company had sprayed ceiling paint over the marks before, but they have always returned.
"The person above me says her floor isn't wet and she hasn't noticed any water getting in," the post reads. "The spots originally were more in the corner but have moved, [its] always two spots about the same size.
Hundreds rushed to the comments section to give advice, with many suggesting the problem is being caused by mice urine. "I had these before. Thought it was reappearing stains. Found out it was mice p*****g in my attic," one person wrote.
Another agreed, commenting: "Brown stains that appear in different places is rodent pee." While a third added: "[It's] rat pee soaking through." The woman says her son has 'smelled' the area and confirm it had a similar scent to his 'hamster cage'.
Want the latest money-saving news and top deals sent straight to your inbox? Sign up to our Money Newsletter
The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) warns rodents such as house mice can cause 'serious' harm and spread diseases such as Salmonella and Listeria through their urine and droppings. It recommends sealing any entry points with wire wool embedded in quick-setting cement, pointing out that mice only need a 5mm gap to gain entry to a house.
The body urges homeowners to contact a professional pest control company through BCPA as they have a 'range of professional use rodenticides which are not available to the public'. "Amateur-use products are restricted and it is likely that you won't be able to purchase the necessary poison," they added.
If you move into rented accommodation and notice there is already a problem with pests and vermin, it is likely your landlord is responsible in dealing with it. You can get more help and support with this here.
Do you have a story to share? Email us at yourmirror@mirror.co.uk