You hear a faint scratching in the walls, or maybe you’ve noticed some chewed wires in your attic. At first, it might seem like no big deal, but these small signs can point to serious problems. Wildlife doesn’t just find its way into your home; it can cause extensive damage that’s costly and dangerous to fix.
Let’s dive into the types of damage wildlife can cause and how to protect your home from becoming their playground.
The Wildlife Invaders
Before we talk damage, it helps to know who’s most likely causing the problems. Here are some of the usual suspects:
Raccoons
Raccoons are clever and persistent. They’re known for tearing into roofs, shredding insulation, and even ripping apart ducts to create their nests. Once, I worked with a homeowner whose attic was practically destroyed by a mother raccoon and her babies. It cost thousands of dollars to repair the damage—all because she didn’t act fast enough.
Squirrels
Squirrels might seem cute, but inside your home, they’re destructive. They gnaw on everything, from wooden beams to electrical wires. A suburban client of mine had to deal with a small electrical fire because squirrels had chewed through their wiring. Trust me, you don’t want this hazard in your home.
Rodents (Mice and Rats)
Mice and rats are sneaky and reproduce quickly. They’ll chew through drywall, contaminate food, and build nests inside walls. Beyond the structural damage, they’re also a health risk because they leave droppings everywhere.
Bats
While bats help keep insect populations down, they’re less welcome inside your home. Their droppings (guano) can pile up quickly, causing odor issues and even structural problems. Worse, guano can harbor fungi that lead to respiratory illnesses like histoplasmosis.
How Wildlife Damages Your Home
Structural Damage
Wildlife can wreak havoc on your home’s structure. They chew through wood, tear apart insulation, and even damage roof shingles or soffits to create entry points. Raccoons and squirrels are particularly notorious for this.
Example: A family in my neighborhood ignored small scratches on their soffit for months. By the time they called me, a raccoon family had completely torn through, leaving their attic exposed to rain and wind damage.
Electrical Hazards
Wildlife chewing on electrical wiring isn’t just annoying; it’s dangerous. Damaged wires can spark fires that threaten your home and family. Squirrels and rodents are often the culprits here.
Tip: If you hear chewing sounds in your walls, don’t wait—have it inspected immediately to prevent a potential fire hazard.
Health Risks
Wildlife doesn’t just damage your home; they also bring health risks. Droppings, urine, and nesting materials can spread diseases like Hantavirus, leptospirosis, and histoplasmosis. Additionally, fleas, ticks, and mites that hitch a ride on these animals can invade your home.
Odor and Aesthetic Issues
If an animal dies inside your walls or attic, the smell can be unbearable. Even live animals can leave behind a lingering odor from droppings, urine, or food they’ve hoarded. I once worked with a homeowner who spent weeks trying to figure out the source of a foul smell, only to discover a dead raccoon trapped behind a wall.
Signs You May Have Wildlife Damage
Not sure if wildlife is wreaking havoc in your home? Here are some common signs:
- Unusual Sounds: Scratching, scurrying, or chirping in the walls, ceilings, or attic.
- Droppings: Small, pellet-like droppings in corners, attics, or basements.
- Damaged Materials: Chewed wires, gnawed wood, or shredded insulation.
- Odors: Strong smells from urine, droppings, or decomposing animals.
- Visible Entry Points: Holes in your roof, soffits, or vents.
Why Prompt Action is Critical
The longer wildlife stays in your home, the more damage they can cause. Small problems can quickly escalate into major repairs. For example, a minor gap in your roof can become a full-blown hole if left unchecked. Acting quickly can save you thousands in repairs and protect your family’s safety.
Financial Impact
The cost of repairs can add up fast. Replacing chewed wires, fixing roof damage, or cleaning up droppings isn’t cheap. In some cases, wildlife damage may not be covered by insurance unless you can prove it happened suddenly.
Safety Concerns
Beyond structural issues, wildlife poses safety risks. From electrical fires to diseases, these invaders can endanger your family’s well-being.
What to Do If Wildlife Damages Your Home
Inspect the Damage
Start by inspecting your home thoroughly. Look for entry points, droppings, and signs of chewing or nesting. If the damage is extensive or you’re unsure where to start, call a professional wildlife removal service.
Repair and Restore
Fix any structural damage, replace chewed wires, and clean up droppings or nesting materials. Make sure to sanitize affected areas to prevent lingering odors or health hazards.
Prevent Future Intrusions
Sealing your home is key to keeping wildlife out. Install barriers over vents, repair damaged soffits, and keep trash bins secure. You can also use deterrents like motion-activated lights or ultrasonic devices to discourage animals.
When to Call a Professional
If the damage is extensive, or you’re dealing with protected species like bats and squirrels, it’s time to call in the experts. Wildlife removal professionals have the tools and knowledge to safely remove animals and prevent them from returning.
