Squirrel in Attic? Signs, Risks, and What to Do Next
Hearing loud scratching, running, or chewing above your ceiling? If you think you have a squirrel in the attic, you’re not alone. We get calls every week from homeowners across Virginia who are shocked by how loud squirrels can be—many people assume it is a raccoon at first.
Squirrels can cause damage quickly, and the longer they stay, the harder the cleanup and prevention becomes. If you need help now, call (804) 729-0046.
Common Signs of a Squirrel in the Attic
If you notice one or more of these issues, there’s a strong chance you have a squirrel in your attic:
- Fast running or “thumping” sounds in the morning and late afternoon
- Scratching, digging, or gnawing sounds in the ceiling
- Strong odor in the attic or upper rooms
- Insulation pulled apart, matted down, or moved into nest piles
- Droppings in attic areas (often near insulation and along beams)
- Damage on the outside of the home near the roofline
- Squirrels seen entering near soffits, fascia, gable vents, or roof intersections
Tip: Squirrels are diurnal (active during the day), so daytime noise is a big clue.
If you are not sure whether it is squirrels, raccoons or rats can sometimes sound similar.
Why a Squirrel in the Attic Is a Serious Problem
A squirrel in the attic isn’t just an annoyance. It can create real risk for your home:
- Fire hazard: squirrels may chew electrical wiring
- Attic contamination: urine and droppings can soak insulation and wood
- Costly damage: soffits, fascia, roof edges, vents, and trim get destroyed
- Repeat break-ins: if one squirrel found a weak spot, others can too
- Ongoing odor: scent and nesting odors can attract future squirrels
The goal isn’t just to get the squirrel out. The goal is to stop it from coming back.
If insulation is badly damaged, see Attic Insulation Removal & Replacement.
Why DIY Squirrel Removal Often Backfires
Most DIY attempts fail for one of these reasons:
- The entry point isn’t found (so new squirrels keep entering)
- The wrong timing traps an animal inside, creating bigger problems
- You remove a squirrel but leave the nest odor and damage behind
- “Repellents” give a false sense of security
If you’re dealing with a squirrel in the attic, the most reliable solution is professional removal plus professional exclusion.
The Right Order Matters (Inspect → Remove → Monitor → Repair)
A successful squirrel job typically follows this order:
1) Inspect
We identify entry points, damage areas, and activity zones.
2) Remove
We use professional-grade trapping/removal methods based on the situation.
3) Monitor
We confirm activity is resolved and nothing is trapped inside.
4) Repair and Exclusion
We seal and reinforce entry areas using animal-resistant materials that also look clean and professional.
This is the step that prevents repeat problems.
For long-term structural prevention, see Virginia Animal Exclusion & Damage Repairs.
Will Squirrels Leave on Their Own?
Sometimes squirrels leave temporarily (especially when attic temperatures rise), but that doesn’t mean the problem is over. Many squirrels return when temperatures drop or when they’re looking for nesting space again.
If the entry point stays open, your attic can remain a target every season.
Want the Full Service Option?
If you want a complete solution, including removal, seal-out, and repairs, see our main service page:
If insulation is damaged or contaminated, we can also discuss cleanup and replacement options during the inspection.
For a more step-by-step homeowner guide, read our Squirrels in the Attic: How to Get Them Out (And Keep Them Out) post.
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Call Now for Help With a Squirrel in the Attic
If you think you have a squirrel in the attic, call now:
Virginia Professional Wildlife Removal Services
Phone: (804) 729-0046
Toll-Free: (888) 824-7383
For a more step-by-step homeowner guide, read How To Get Rid Of Squirrels In Your Attic.
