2. • Adorable Facade, Destructive Guests: Cute faces hide
their talent for ruining homes, costing you dearly.
• Motivated Mischief: Warmth and food make your
property a potential den.
• Arm Your Knowledge: Understand their behaviour and
weak spots to prevent trouble.
How Raccoons Wreak Havoc on Your Home and Wallet
3. Inside the Home:
● Attics:
○ Insulation damage (tearing, nesting)
○ Structural damage (weight, movement on beams)
○ Electrical hazards (wire chewing)
○ Contamination (droppings, urine)
● Walls:
○ Entry points (chewing through siding, fascia)
○ Insulation access (interior walls)
● Chimneys and Vents:
○ Entry points
○ Damage to screens
Common Areas at Risk of Raccoon Infestations and Damage
4. Outside the Home:
● Roof:
○ Shingle and soffit damage (entry points)
○ Leaky roof from chewed gutters
● Gutters and Downspouts:
○ Clogged by debris, leaves, and nesting materials
● Gardens and Lawns:
○ Digging for grubs and worms (holes, damaged plants)
● Trash Cans:
○ Raiding for food, scattering contents, creating messes
Common Areas at Risk of Raccoon Infestations and Damage
5. Structural Damage:
• Chewed wires, insulation, and wooden structures.
• Entry points in attics, crawl spaces, and vents.
Garden Issues:
• Raccoons may dig up lawns in search of insects.
• Damage to crops, especially fruits and vegetables.
Types of Raccoon Property Damage
6. Feces and Urine:
• Raccoon droppings may carry diseases.
• Potential health risks for humans and pets.
Signs of Infestation:
• Scratching noises in the attic.
• Visible damage to property.
• Presence of feces and footprints.
Types of Raccoon Property Damage
7. • Seal Up Holes and Gaps: This is the most important step in preventing raccoons from entering
your property. Look for holes in your roof, foundation, soffits, fascia, and around pipes and wires.
• Trim Tree Branches: Raccoons can use tree branches to access your roof or attic.
• Secure Chimneys and Vents: Use chimney caps and vent covers with wire mesh to prevent
raccoons from entering.
• Store Trash Cans Securely: Keep your trash cans in a garage or shed or use heavy-duty cans
with tight-fitting lids.
• Don't Leave Pet Food Outside: Bring in pet food at night or store it in a sealed container.
• Inspect Your Property Regularly: Look for signs of raccoons, such as footprints, droppings, or
damage.
Ways to Keep Raccoons Out of Your Property
8. • Confirmed Infestation: You hear scratching, rustling, or see droppings inside your home. Don't
attempt DIY removal - professionals have the expertise and equipment for safe, humane handling.
• Mama on Board: Witnessing baby raccoons or hearing vocalizations suggests a den.
Professionals understand removal strategies that consider their sensitive needs.
• Extensive Damage: If raccoon activity has led to significant structural damage, electrical hazards,
or widespread contamination, professionals can assess the problem, remove the raccoons, and
recommend repairs.
• Aggressive Behaviour: Encountering a cornered or frightened raccoon attempting to attack.
Don't risk injury - professionals have the training and tools for safe capture and relocation.
• Uncertain DIY Results: If you’ve tried exclusion methods without success or are unsure about
identifying entry points and sealing them effectively. Professionals ensure a complete solution,
preventing future incursions.
When to Seek Help from Professionals
9. • How to Trap Raccoons That Are in Your Attic and Chimney
• How Can I Protect Myself from Common Raccoon Diseases?
• Why Should Toronto Residents Avoid Contact with Raccoons?
• Benefits of Preventive Raccoon Control: How Can Hawkeye Help Protect Your
Property?
• 10 Tell-Tale Signs You Have a Raccoon in Your Home
Reference Links