u/Intrepid_Emu711

Hello everyone,

While visiting a house that we are considering buying as our main residence, we discovered a pile of black powder (similar to dirt or sawdust, but very dark — almost too dark) on the floor upstairs, beneath the roof structure (see photo). This powder appears to have come out through a gap between the sloped ceiling paneling and the wall.

We didn't see any insect during the visit.

It should be noted that the house has been unoccupied for several months.

This makes us think of possible insect droppings (ants maybe?). Would anyone be able to identify the origin of this powder? What could be the consequences for the roof structure? What kind of treatment or repair work would you recommend?

Thanks in advance to the community!