Squirrels in a roof are more than a noise problem. They chew cables and timber, foul insulation and can cause lasting damage. Here is what to look for.
The first sign is usually sound: scratching, thudding or running in the ceiling during the day. You may also see them on the roof or along gutters, carrying nesting material. In spring and summer, the sound of young animals squeaking from the roof space can follow.
Squirrels gnaw constantly, because their teeth keep growing. In a loft this means chewed rafters, boxed-in pipes, water tank lids and insulation. Outside, they can strip fascias, soffits and lead flashing. A small hole made for entry can be widened over time, letting in rain and other animals.
Chewed wiring is the most serious risk. Gnawed insulation on cables can expose live conductors, and bare wire in a dry loft is a fire hazard. If you have found chewed cables, or the lights flicker or circuits trip, have a qualified electrician inspect the wiring.
Droppings, urine and nesting material can contaminate the insulation and attract parasites such as fleas and mites. Squirrels are not common carriers of disease to people, but good hygiene still matters when clearing a loft. Wear gloves and a mask, and wash your hands.
Squirrels in a roof are rarely aggressive, but a cornered animal can bite and scratch, so do not corner one in a confined space. Pets that catch a squirrel can be injured and may pick up fleas. Keep children and pets away from loft hatches while the animals are present.
Neighbours can be affected as well. In terraces and semi-detached homes, squirrels can use shared roof voids to travel between properties, so a problem next door can become yours and vice versa. Telling neighbours helps to deal with it properly.
Noise itself is a risk to sleep and wellbeing. Many people find that early-morning scrabbling over the bedroom is the thing that finally makes them act, and it is a perfectly good reason to get the roof looked at before the problem grows and the repairs become more extensive.
Squirrels breed in spring and again later in the summer, and a nest with young is harder to deal with and more disruptive. The longer they are in place, the more insulation they foul and the more timber they gnaw. Acting early limits both the repairs and the disturbance.
If you have spotted any of these signs, call 0113 347 0014 or message us on WhatsApp for a free quote and a survey of your roof.
Chewed electrical wiring can expose conductors and create a fire risk, though a fire is not certain. If you suspect squirrels have gnawed cables, have an electrician check the wiring promptly.
They are not a major danger to most people, but they can carry bacteria and attract parasites. Clear them with gloves and a mask, bag them and wash your hands. A professional can clean contaminated insulation.
Not usually. A dry, warm loft is an attractive nesting site, particularly in spring when they raise young. Without trapping and proofing, they tend to stay or return.
Tell us what you have seen and where, and we will come back to you. There are no call-out charges and surveys are free for homes and businesses.
