Curiosities Encountered by Home Maintenance Contractors
The daily routine of a home maintenance contractor is filled with a blend of practical tasks and unexpected occurrences. These individuals often step into various types of dwellings, from ordinary homes to unique ones, and come across a range of fascinating items and situations. Here are some of the most intriguing stories shared by these professionals.
Gay Club with an Aqueerium
One such contractor once found himself in an unusual setting. While working on a television repair for a club that catered to the gay community, he discovered a terrarium that they called aquireium. This unique space housed various action figures, including Spiderman, in creative poses. Despite the club's strange yet enchanting atmosphere, the work was appreciated by the owners, who were always hospitable and provided excellent customer service.
Awe-Inspiring Fossil Collection
In another instance, a contractor was asked to work on a home with an impressive fossil collection. The collection was so vast and well-presented that it inspired awe. This ichthyologist's hobby turned into a personal museum, showcasing a wide array of fossils gathered through years of collecting. The homeowner was proud of his collection and keen to share the stories behind each piece with the contractor.
Mystery of the Intermittent Noises
During a basement renovation for elderly couples, a contractor and his colleague heard strange noises all day—following the sounds of a dog walking above them. For a long time, they could not figure out how a dog was possible in the house, given the homeowners' confirmation that they owned no pets. It wasn't until they left the site that they realized the culprits might have been something extraordinary, perhaps even shape-shifters, as the owners could not explain the sounds. This mystery remains unsolved and added to the peculiarities of the job.
Abandoned Farm with Mysterious Buildings
Grading a farm property for tax assessment, a contractor noticed unusual buildings on an aerial photo. The site was not officially listed, meaning no taxes were due, yet aerial imagery showed them present. A trail through the woods led to a small meadow with a well-preserved farmhouse, barns, and lean-tos. None of the buildings suggested active use for either farming or residence.
A detailed inspection confirmed these buildings dated back to the late 1800s and were in remarkable condition. The property owner, however, was unaware of these structures and had never addressed them as he had not moved into the area until much later. The contractor decided not to add these to the property card after learning this and the owner's indifference to the structures, which left a lasting impression of fear and wonder. He was initially unnerved by the unexplained presence of these structures and their state of preservation.
These tales highlight the diversity and intrigue found in the realm of home maintenance. Each day can bring new and unexpected marvels, or in some cases, challenges that baffle the mind. The life of a home maintenance contractor is anything but ordinary, filled with unique stories that stand the test of time.