How do I know if I have squirrels in my loft?

Heavy scratching, scurrying or rolling noises in the loft during the day — particularly at dawn and dusk — are the classic signs. You may also see gnawed timbers, damaged insulation, or droppings larger than mouse droppings but smaller than rat droppings.

Are grey squirrels protected by law?

Grey squirrels are classed as an invasive non-native species in the UK. They cannot legally be released back into the wild once trapped, so control must be carried out humanely and in line with current legislation. Our technicians follow all relevant guidance.

How do you treat a squirrel infestation?

We carry out a survey to confirm entry points, set professional spring traps in safe locations within the loft, and visit regularly to inspect and remove squirrels until activity stops. We then proof entry points to prevent re-entry.

How long does squirrel control take?

Most squirrel jobs take 3–4 visits over a few weeks, depending on activity. Once clear, we recommend a final proofing visit to seal entry points using metal mesh and rodent-proof materials.

What damage do squirrels cause?

Squirrels gnaw constantly. In a loft they can strip insulation, chew through cables (a serious fire risk), damage water pipes, and undermine roof timbers and felt. Early action keeps repair costs down.

How do I stop squirrels coming back?

Proofing is essential — sealing rooflines, broken tiles, soffits and gable ends with squirrel-proof mesh. Cutting back overhanging branches that give roof access also makes a big difference.

Emergency response

Squirrel control across Hertfordshire

Hearing scratching in the loft? Fast, professional grey squirrel control with proofing to stop costly damage to roofs, insulation and wiring.

01727 601 007 Request a quote

Same-day appointments where available
Grey squirrel treatment in lofts, roofs and soffits
Inspection of overhanging branches and entry points
Proofing of fascia, soffits and roofline gaps
Fully insured technicians, clear aftercare

Our squirrel control process

Inspection

We locate dreys, entry points and damaged roofline timbers around your property.

Treatment

Lawful, targeted grey squirrel control monitored over follow-up visits.

Proofing

We seal access points and recommend tree-line management so squirrels don't return.

The grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is the species responsible for most loft damage in Hertfordshire — strong teeth and powerful claws make short work of timber, insulation and wiring.

Habits & behaviour

Active during daylight, especially early morning and late afternoon
Excellent climbers that access roofs via overhanging branches and telephone wires
Chew their way into lofts and soffits to build warm, dry dreys (nests)
Store large quantities of nuts and seeds in wall cavities and insulation
Highly territorial — once established, they are difficult to dislodge

Damage & risks

Chew through roof timbers, fascia boards and soffits to create entry holes
Strip electrical wiring completely bare, creating severe fire hazards
Destroy loft insulation by shredding it for nesting material
Damage water pipes and tanks, leading to leaks and costly repairs
Introduce fleas and ticks into the home; their noise can disturb sleep

Rodent Proofing Checklist

Effective proofing is the most important long-term solution for preventing rodent infestations. We seal, mesh and secure every access point using professional-grade materials.

External Proofing

☐Seal gaps around pipes entering the property
☐Fit wire mesh to air bricks and vents
☐Repair damaged brickwork
☐Seal holes in external walls
☐Fit bristle strips to garage doors
☐Install door sweeps on external doors
☐Repair damaged soffits and fascias
☐Cover drain openings where appropriate
☐Install rodent guards on drainage systems
☐Repair broken air vents
☐Seal gaps around utility cables
☐Trim vegetation touching buildings
☐Remove ivy growing up walls
☐Cut back overhanging tree branches
☐Store firewood away from buildings

Internal Proofing

☐Seal gaps under kitchen units
☐Proof around boiler pipework
☐Seal holes behind appliances
☐Proof around electrical cable entries
☐Install mesh behind kickboards
☐Seal loft access points
☐Proof service risers and ducting
☐Seal gaps around internal pipe runs
☐Repair damaged floorboards
☐Seal wall void access points

Loft & Roof Areas

☐Inspect loft insulation for rodent activity
☐Seal eaves entry points
☐Proof around roof vents
☐Repair broken roof tiles
☐Install mesh to loft ventilation points
☐Check chimney voids
☐Seal gaps around solar panel cable entries

Garden & Outbuildings

☐Proof sheds and summerhouses
☐Seal gaps under shed bases
☐Fit metal mesh to outbuilding vents
☐Secure compost bins
☐Store animal feed in sealed containers
☐Remove clutter and harbourage
☐Elevate stored materials off the ground
☐Proof decking voids where required

Hygiene & Prevention

☐Remove accessible food sources
☐Store food in sealed containers
☐Clean spillages promptly
☐Secure refuse bins
☐Remove bird food at night
☐Manage fallen fruit from trees
☐Regularly inspect for new proofing defects

Common Proofing Materials

Stainless steel wire wool
Rodent-proof expanding foam
Galvanised steel mesh
Welded wire mesh
Aluminium kick plates
Door brush strips
Stainless steel vent covers
Concrete mortar
Sheet metal flashing

Proofing Note

A hole as small as 6 mm can allow a mouse entry, while a rat can squeeze through openings of approximately 15–20 mm. Effective proofing is often the most important long-term solution for preventing rodent infestations.

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