What to Do if You Think You Have a Poltergeist

What Is a Poltergeist?

Poltergeist is a German word meaning "noisy spirit". Reports of this type of activity stretch back centuries, though explanations have changed over time. In earlier periods, such disturbances were often blamed on demons or witchcraft.

Today, opinions still vary on what causes poltergeist activity. Some believe these events involve genuine spirits of the dead. Others, including many researchers who have investigated cases firsthand, lean towards a different view: that poltergeist phenomena may be linked to the psychological state of a living person in the household, often an adolescent experiencing emotional stress.

In some reported cases, witnesses have claimed the presence communicated through knocking sounds, written messages, or other means. Names and identities sometimes emerge in these accounts, though such claims remain anecdotal and lack scientific verification.

Whatever your own view, if unexplained disturbances are happening in your home, it makes sense to investigate rational explanations before drawing conclusions about anything paranormal.

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Common Signs of Poltergeist Activity

Reported poltergeist cases tend to share certain features. You may notice one or several of the following:

• Objects moving on their own, sometimes while you watch, sometimes discovered out of place later
• Unexplained knocking, rapping, or banging sounds with no obvious source
• Doors or cupboards opening or closing without anyone touching them
• Lights or electrical items switching on and off
• Items disappearing and reappearing in odd locations, though forgetfulness or other household members moving things often accounts for this
• Unusual smells with no identifiable cause, which may stem from drains, external sources, or ventilation issues

These experiences can be unsettling, but most reported cases are relatively mild and tend to stop on their own after weeks or months.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Ruling Out Ordinary Causes

Before concluding that something paranormal is happening, it makes sense to check for everyday explanations. Many apparent poltergeist signs have mundane causes.

Knocking and banging sounds often come from pipes, especially in older properties with ageing plumbing. Central heating systems can produce surprising noises as they warm up or cool down. Rodents or birds in roof spaces or wall cavities can create scratching, tapping, and movement sounds.

Objects that seem to move may have been shifted by vibrations from traffic, settling foundations, or even a draught. Electrical faults can cause lights to flicker or appliances to behave strangely.

Consider having a qualified electrician check your wiring if you notice repeated electrical oddities. If you suspect pests, your local council may offer pest control services or can point you towards approved contractors.

Keep a log detailing what happens, when it occurs, and where in the house you noticed it. Note who else was home at the time. This record can help you spot patterns or eliminate certain explanations.

What to Do If Activity Continues

If you have checked for practical causes and the disturbances persist, you have several options to consider.

Some people find comfort in speaking with a religious leader. Many churches, including the Church of England, have clergy who can offer support and, in some cases, conduct a blessing of the home. Such blessings are generally intended to provide reassurance and comfort rather than to address paranormal phenomena directly. Other faith communities may offer similar assistance. You do not usually need to be a regular churchgoer to ask, though this option will suit some households more than others.

There are also organisations in the UK that investigate reported paranormal activity. The Society for Psychical Research, established in 1882, maintains a list of investigators and can sometimes offer guidance. The Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena is another long-standing group. Both organisations focus on research rather than providing definitive answers, and neither charges for initial advice.

Be cautious about anyone who asks for significant fees upfront or makes dramatic promises. Reputable investigators and clergy do not typically charge for home visits or basic support.

Believing that your home is haunted can take a real toll on mental health. Anxiety, poor sleep, and persistent worry are common responses. If the experiences are causing distress, particularly for children or vulnerable household members, consider speaking with your GP. These concerns are valid, and your doctor can suggest appropriate support or refer you to counselling services.

In cases where a household member, especially a teenager, appears to be at the centre of the activity, some researchers suggest that addressing any underlying stress or emotional difficulties may help. School counsellors, family support services through your local council, or charities such as Young Minds can provide assistance.

Reported poltergeist activity often reduces over time without any formal intervention. Staying calm, keeping records, maintaining a healthy scepticism alongside an open mind, and seeking measured advice where needed will usually see you through.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Haunted Location Finder lets you search for reported haunted sites near a UK postcode or town. Try it now →