Find top rated squirrel removal pros in your area

To keep squirrels away from your home, start by sealing entry points and eliminating potential food sources. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders and quickly remove fallen fruit from your yard. Planting strong-scented herbs like peppermint, garlic, and onions deters squirrels, as can spraying a mixture of apple cider vinegar and black pepper at potential entry points.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover squirrel damage or destruction from other vermin and pests such as rats, mice, foxes, and chipmunks. Damage from larger wildlife, however, like deer or bears, may be covered depending on your policy. To be sure, contact your provider to check your policy for all inclusions and exclusions.

Squirrels can fit through holes the size of a quarter, which is why it's hard to keep them out of your home. Inspect your house to check for potential entry points and seal them immediately with fine wire mesh. Hiring a local handyperson to check for and remedy these weak spots regularly is an effective and relatively inexpensive solution compared to repairing squirrel damage.

If you hear strange scratching or scurrying noises in your attic or notice foul-smelling droppings, you might have a squirrel problem. Assess your home for visual signs such as chewed entry points, gnawed wiring, or damaged insulation and ductwork. If you notice any of these signs or see more squirrels than usual around your home, schedule a professional squirrel inspection.

If you have a squirrel in your home, call a local animal control service immediately. While DIY traps are available, professionals know how to locate entry points and remove additional squirrels you might not be aware of. They also offer cleanup services and can recommend ways to seal holes and prevent future invasions. Act at the first sign of infestation to avoid damage to your electrical wiring, ductwork, and insulation–and to protect your family's health.