Job Overview
Location: Peterborough, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-story house with attached garage
Problem: Nocturnal wildlife activity in attic consistent with raccoon presence
Service: Humane raccoon removal and roof-level exclusion
Visits: 2
Summary
We were contacted regarding nighttime wildlife activity in the attic of a detached two-story home. Based on the timing and reported movement sounds, raccoon activity was suspected. Our team conducted a full roof inspection, identified an active roof vent entry point, and implemented a humane one-way door system. Exclusion work was completed to prevent re-entry. A follow-up visit confirmed successful resolution with no further activity.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached brick home with an attached garage and multiple roof penetrations, including roof vents and masonry chimneys. The roof is finished with asphalt shingles and includes several square roof vents aligned along the ridgeline.
Surrounding mature trees and roofline accessibility provided potential access routes for climbing wildlife.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported hearing movement in the attic during nighttime hours. Activity was described as heavy footfall and shifting sounds consistent with raccoon presence. The concern was potential attic nesting and structural damage.
Technician Grant was assigned to inspect the property.
Inspection & Findings
During the exterior roof inspection, Grant identified an active entry point at a roof vent. The vent cover had been displaced and structurally compromised, allowing direct access into the attic space.
Photos show:
- A damaged roof vent with broken internal flaps and exposed attic opening.
- A roof vent fitted with a secured galvanized steel one-way door system.
- A chimney sealed with galvanized steel mesh and properly fastened.
- A new galvanized steel vent cover installed and secured with exterior-grade fasteners.
- Minor staining visible near soffit areas, consistent with wildlife traffic.
An attic inspection was conducted to check for dependent young. No raccoon babies were found at the time of inspection.
No additional active entry points were identified during the full roofline assessment.
Cause Analysis
Raccoons commonly target roof vents due to their lightweight construction and accessible placement along sloped rooflines. Plastic or thin metal vent covers can be displaced or broken under pressure from climbing wildlife.
The presence of nearby trees and accessible roof edges likely contributed to repeated roof-level exploration. Once a vent cover becomes compromised, it provides direct attic access suitable for shelter.
Treatment / Removal
A humane one-way door was installed over the identified roof vent entry point. This allowed the raccoon to exit the attic space naturally while preventing re-entry.
The attic was inspected for young prior to door installation. No dependent animals were present, allowing the one-way system to function without complication.
All work was completed using galvanized steel materials designed to withstand wildlife pressure and Ontario weather conditions.
Exclusion & Repairs
Exclusion measures completed during Visit 1 included:
- Installation of a raccoon-rated galvanized steel roof vent cover
- Installation of a one-way exit door over the primary entry point
- Sealing of a chimney opening using galvanized steel mesh
- Securing vent systems with exterior-grade fasteners
All materials were mechanically fastened to prevent lifting or displacement.
During Visit 2, the one-way door was removed after confirmation of animal exit. The vent opening was permanently sealed and reinforced. All exclusion points were re-inspected to confirm integrity.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the follow-up visit, the homeowner reported no further nighttime activity. No new entry attempts or roof disturbances were observed.
The one-way door was removed, permanent sealing was confirmed, and all exclusion work was inspected.
No further wildlife issues have been reported since completion of the work.
Technician Notes
Grant conducted a full roof-level inspection and confirmed raccoon entry through a compromised roof vent. No dependent young were present in the attic at time of service.
All exclusion materials installed were galvanized steel and mechanically secured. Final inspection confirmed successful eviction and secure closure of all identified access points.
This service was completed by our Peterborough wildlife team. For wildlife removal inquiries in Peterborough, contact 705-410-3708.