Halloween: 19% of Londoners believe their home is haunted

There have been times in all of our lives when we’ve woken up to things going bump in the night.

Usually, there is a reasonable explanation such as a gust of wind, or the cat pushing the door ajar - but sometimes (just sometimes,) there isn’t...

Common household noises that can give you Goosebumps include creaking floorboards, strange whistling and scratching (usually caused by mice in the attic!)

With the spooky season well and truly upon us, we’re bound to see an increase in paranormal activity whether it is real or staged.

Recent data conducted by MyBuilder.com has revealed that 25% of people aged under 34 in the UK believe their home could be haunted.

Londoners were among the biggest believers with 19% of adults believing their home could be host to a ghost.

The Scottish capital of Edinburgh has the highest rate of believers with 27% suggesting their homes were subject to unwelcome apparitions.

In addition, the data found that 18% of Londoners were scared to stay at home alone - the highest rate in the country, tied with Liverpool. Although we suspect this may not be entirely linked to ghosts and ghouls.

An expert opinion

Construction expert Andy Simms from MyBuilder.com said that the majority of noises can be explained - and that even strange temperature drops or spooky sights are likely to be normal house occurrences.

“Buildings - whether old or new - can make all sorts of strange noises that may initially seem spooky. From creaking floorboards to banging pipes, there is an entire orchestra of sounds that are caused by typical household issues.

“For example, extremes in weather can cause pipes to make strange sounds as they warm up, pests in the attic or walls can cause scratching noises, and bubbles in the radiator can sound like screeches.

“If it's more the alive than the (un)dead that are worrying you, then getting good locks and windows can make you feel more safe - or consider installing an alarm or CCTV system to keep you extra secure.”