Squirrels - Frequently Asked Questions
Are squirrels considered pests?
Squirrels are wildlife, but they can become pests when they cause damage or gain access to buildings. Grey squirrels in particular can enter lofts, roof spaces and wall cavities, where they may damage insulation, timber, electrical wiring and stored belongings.
How do I know if I have squirrels in my loft?
Common signs include scratching, running or gnawing noises, particularly early in the morning. You may also find damaged insulation, nesting material, droppings, chewed cables or holes around the roofline. Seeing squirrels entering or leaving your roof is another clear indication of activity.
What damage can squirrels cause to a house?
Squirrels can damage loft insulation, timber, roofing materials, pipework and stored possessions. They may also chew electrical cables, which can cause electrical faults and potentially increase the risk of fire. Damage can become more extensive if the infestation is allowed to continue.
Can squirrels chew through electrical wires?
Yes. Squirrels have strong teeth and may gnaw electrical cables, particularly when they are exploring or creating nesting areas. Damaged wiring can lead to electrical faults and potentially create a fire risk, so evidence of chewed cables should be taken seriously.
Why do squirrels get into lofts?
Lofts provide squirrels with a warm, dry and relatively secure environment. They may enter buildings to escape poor weather, find shelter from predators or establish a nest and raise their young. A small gap around a roofline can provide enough access for a squirrel to get inside.
Can squirrels cause problems in gardens?
Yes. Squirrels can dig in lawns and flowerbeds, disturb bulbs, damage plants and strip bark from trees. They may also raid bird feeders and interfere with bird nests, including eating eggs and young birds.
Are grey squirrels dangerous?
Grey squirrels are not generally considered dangerous to people, but they can cause significant property damage. They can also pose risks through damage to electrical wiring and may contaminate areas with droppings and urine.
Can I block a squirrel's entry hole myself?
It is important not to block an entry point until you are certain that squirrels are no longer inside. Sealing an active entry point can trap squirrels within a building and may cause them to chew through other materials in an attempt to escape. Professional assessment is recommended before proofing is carried out.
Find out more about our expert squirrel removal service.
Can squirrels cause problems in commercial buildings?
Yes. Squirrels can enter offices, warehouses, industrial units, shops, agricultural buildings and other commercial premises. Damage to electrical wiring, insulation and building materials can result in repair costs and disruption to normal business operations.
Will squirrels come back after they have been removed?
They can. If a property remains accessible, another squirrel may eventually use the same entry point. This is why proofing and repairing potential access points after treatment can be an important part of long-term squirrel control.
Can Pest ID help with squirrels in my home or business?
Yes. Pest ID provides professional squirrel control for residential and commercial properties. We can assess signs of squirrel activity, identify potential access points, provide appropriate control measures and advise on proofing to help prevent future infestations.
Call us now on 0800 955 0003 for more information on squirrels and how we can help.
