Homeowner Tips
Get helpful guidance from local wildlife experts on how to reduce risks, spot early warning signs, and protect your home. Our homeowner tips are designed to help you stay informed and prevent wildlife problems before they grow.
Homeowner Tips: Protect Your Biggest Investment
Cover your biggest investment. Be proactive and know the signs to look for.
It is our goal to give homeowners and those looking to list or purchase property the right tools to evaluate any potential issues.
If you are in the market for a home, there are many things to consider whether the property is newly constructed or an older home. Critters are not always discerning, and we often see them frequent newer construction as well.
If you are a homeowner looking to list your property, you can take proactive steps to avoid any surprises during the home inspection process.
Whether you are currently in a home and planning to stay, preparing to list, or searching for a new property, we have put together helpful tips to identify potential issues. We can also recommend preventative measures to help ensure problems do not occur in the first place.
If You Are Buying a Home
If you are in the market for a home, there are many factors to consider — and wildlife activity should be one of them. Critters are not selective about the age of a property. In fact, we frequently see bats, flying squirrels, and other wildlife taking advantage of newly constructed homes due to modern building ventilation systems and unsealed construction gaps.
Before purchasing, look for:
- Staining or dark streaking near rooflines and vents
- Noises in the attic or walls, especially at dusk or dawn
- Droppings in attics, garages, or crawlspaces
- Loose soffits, fascia, or vent covers
- Strong or unusual odors
Identifying these signs early can help prevent delays during inspections and protect you from inheriting an expensive problem.
If You Are Listing Your Home
If you are preparing to sell, being proactive can help you avoid surprises during a buyer’s home inspection. Wildlife damage is often uncovered during attic inspections and can raise red flags for buyers, insurance companies, and lenders.
Taking preventative steps ahead of time — including sealing entry points and addressing any insulation contamination — can increase buyer confidence and strengthen your negotiating position. Documentation of preventative wildlife work and transferable warranties can also add value to your listing.
If You Plan to Stay in Your Home
Even if you are not buying or selling, routine wildlife awareness is essential. Seasonal changes in New England often drive animals to seek warmth and shelter inside homes, especially during fall and winter months.
Preventative measures may include:
- Securing ridge vents and roofline openings
- Sealing foundation and siding gaps
- Installing chimney caps
- Screening attic and crawlspace vents
- Scheduling periodic inspections
Addressing vulnerabilities before animals enter is always more cost-effective than removal and repair after damage has occurred.
When in Doubt, Get a Professional Inspection
If you are unsure whether your home shows signs of wildlife activity, a professional inspection can provide clarity. Early detection allows for targeted prevention and helps avoid structural damage, contamination, and recurring infestations.
Our team offers thorough inspections and practical solutions designed to protect your home long-term. Being proactive today can prevent expensive repairs tomorrow.
