Advice
Grey Squirrels in the Loft or Roof Space
Grey squirrels can move into a loft to nest and chew, and because of the damage and welfare issues involved, professional help is usually the safest route.
Read the guide →A quiet property can go unnoticed for weeks, which is why holiday homes and second homes are worth a mention. A squirrel can settle in a roof space while nobody is there to hear it. If you manage a property that is empty for long stretches, we can check it over.
Empty properties and lofts nobody checks
Seaton has a lot of holiday homes, and owners often only find out about a problem when they arrive to ceiling stains, a smell or a mess in the loft. Squirrels chew insulation and timber, and may gnaw into wiring. A regular glance at the roof edges and a quick listen in the loft after a long absence can catch a problem early.
If you manage lettings, it helps to act quickly. Guests who hear scratching overhead will want an answer, and nobody wants a repeat. We can look at the roofline, tell you what the squirrels have used to get in, and agree a plan that fits around changeover days.
Valley homes, trees and the wetlands edge
Homes spread up the valley behind the seafront, and many have gardens with mature trees. Those trees give squirrels a bridge to the roof. The wetlands reserve nearby adds more green space, so wildlife is never far away. None of this is unusual, but it does mean squirrels in Seaton have plenty of cover.
Our work follows the same sensible order on every job: survey, humane live-capture and other lawful methods, then proofing. Laws apply to grey squirrels, and a technician handles that properly. We seal what we can with sturdy materials, and we explain what has been closed so you can keep an eye on it.
Keeping a coastal roof squirrel-proof
Wind and salt air are hard on timber and fixings, so a Seaton roofline benefits from a periodic check. Look for lifted tiles, loose boards or gaps beside vents, and have them mended before a squirrel finds them. We cover Colyton, Sidmouth and Sidbury as well, in EX12 and the surrounding area, if you are close by.
Frequently asked questions
Can squirrels get into a holiday home that is empty most of the year?
Yes, and an empty house can be attractive because it is quiet. Check the roof edges and loft when you arrive, and look for chewed wood, droppings or shredded insulation. If anything looks wrong, ask for a survey before guests arrive.
Are squirrels common in Seaton, or just a rural problem?
They are found in towns as well as the countryside, anywhere with trees and gardens. Seaton has plenty of both. A seaside setting makes no difference to them, so noises overhead are worth taking seriously.
What should I do if I hear scratching in my Seaton loft?
Do not block anything. Make a note of when you hear it, as dawn and dusk point to squirrels, and get the loft looked at. Early action limits damage to insulation, timber and cables.