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 →You do not need to be sure it is a squirrel before you call. Describe the noises, the time of day and where you hear them, and we will tell you what is most likely and what a visit would involve.
Why older Totnes buildings suit squirrels
Totnes has a lot of older buildings in and around the centre, and with age come small gaps: slipped slates, loose fascia boards, worn lead flashing and cracked mortar at the eaves. A grey squirrel only needs one weak spot to reach a warm, dry loft, and a mature tree or a neighbouring roof close by makes the climb easy.
Shops, cafes and flats above them are affected as well as houses. A drey in a void above a ceiling can sit unnoticed for weeks while the damage builds up. Chewed wiring is the worry we hear about most, because it is both a nuisance and a fire risk.
What we do when we visit
When we visit a Totnes property, we survey it inside and out, checking the loft, the roofline, the chimney and any nearby trees or climbing routes. The aim is to find the entry point, not just remove the animal, because otherwise another squirrel will simply move in once the first has gone.
Grey squirrels are covered by specific laws, so the work has to be done lawfully. A technician handles that side of things. We use humane live-capture and other lawful methods, and we explain each step before we begin. Afterwards we proof the gaps so the roofline is sealed.
Covering Totnes and the surrounding area
We work throughout Totnes and the countryside around it, and we also cover Longcombe and Dartmouth. If you have farm buildings, outbuildings or a garden shed with a squirrel problem, mention that when you ring, as the approach differs slightly from a house loft.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if it is a squirrel in my Totnes loft and not a rat?
Squirrels are active by day, mostly at dawn and dusk, with bounding, thumping footsteps. Rats tend to be heard at night and scratch or scurry. Chewed timber and nutshells point to squirrels. If you are unsure, we can survey the loft and tell you what is there.
Will you remove the squirrel and the nest as well?
We deal with the squirrel using humane, lawful methods and can advise on clearing the nesting material and any droppings. Just as important is closing the entry point, so the space is not taken over again by another squirrel looking for shelter.
Can squirrels cause damage to cables and pipes?
Yes. Grey squirrels gnaw constantly and will chew timber, wiring and even lead pipes. If you have heard noises and notice flickering lights or damaged insulation, it is worth getting the loft checked sooner rather than later, and having an electrician look at any exposed wires.