Uninhabited homes can become the perfect sanctuary for wildlife. In North Carolina, particularly in rural or suburban areas near bodies of water, vacant homes become havens for all sorts of creatures. If you’re considering purchasing a property that has been left unattended for some time, it’s crucial to understand the signs of wildlife infestation. From electrical hazards to insulation destruction, wild animals are not just a nuisance—they can cause severe damage to your home. Here’s everything you need to know about wildlife infestations in North Carolina and how to protect your property.
Quiet, Vacant, and Vulnerable: Why Animals Love Uninhabited Homes
One of the biggest reasons animals are attracted to vacant homes is the peace and quiet. A home that has been left vacant provides a safe, undisturbed environment where animals can nest, breed, and seek shelter from predators. In North Carolina, many homes are located near lakes, rivers, and creeks, creating the perfect blend of water sources and shelter that wildlife needs to thrive. Animals like raccoons, flying squirrels, and mice are common intruders in such homes.
Vacant homes located near bodies of water are especially at risk for wildlife infestation, as animals are naturally drawn to these areas for food and water. Even more dangerous, once animals settle into a home, they can be challenging to remove. It’s vital for potential homeowners to get a thorough wildlife inspection done by a professional wildlife control expert before purchasing. An inspection can reveal hidden damage and determine whether wildlife has made itself comfortable within the property.
The Telltale Signs of Wildlife Infestation
Identifying the early signs of wildlife infestation can save you from expensive repairs down the line. There are several clear indicators that wildlife may have taken up residence in a vacant property. One of the most obvious signs is damaged or flattened insulation in the attic or crawlspace. Animals like flying squirrels and mice often enter attics through small openings and chew through insulation to create nests. Flying squirrels are notorious for bringing food such as nuts and seeds into the attic, which attracts other pests, particularly mice. If you notice small holes in the insulation or even fecal matter, you may have an infestation brewing.
Another important area to inspect is the electrical wiring. Wildlife, especially rodents, have a habit of gnawing on electrical wires, which can create a fire hazard if left unchecked. In many cases, wires in the attic become exposed or chewed through entirely, which poses a significant risk to homeowners. If you’re inspecting a home for signs of wildlife infestation, make sure to look closely at the attic’s wiring system. Damaged wiring is not only a danger to the structure of the home but can also lead to costly repairs.
Lastly, speaking to the neighbors can provide valuable insights. If the homes surrounding yours have had infestations in their attics or crawlspaces and had wildlife excluded, there is a high chance those animals migrated to your home. Wildlife will often move from one property to the next in search of shelter. Keep an open line of communication with your neighbors to stay informed about local wildlife issues and share experiences regarding infestations.
Preventing and Addressing Wildlife Infestations
If you’re purchasing a home that has been vacant for a while, prevention is your best defense against wildlife infestation. First and foremost, have a wildlife control expert, like Varmint Gone, thoroughly inspect the home before finalizing the purchase. They can identify signs of wildlife infestation, such as damaged insulation, chewed wires, and small entry points that animals use to enter. A professional will also provide recommendations for wildlife exclusion techniques, such as sealing entry points and securing vents or chimneys.
Another important preventative step is to check the home’s proximity to water sources. Houses near creeks, ponds, or lakes are more susceptible to wildlife issues due to the availability of food and water for animals. While this location might seem idyllic, it’s essential to understand the increased risk and take extra precautions to keep your home animal-free. Installing barriers, securing trash cans, and trimming tree branches that may act as bridges for animals can all help reduce the risk of infestation.
Once wildlife has invaded your home, excluding them can be a complex process. This involves sealing off entry points while ensuring no animals are trapped inside. Regular maintenance and inspections can prevent future infestations from occurring. Checking for the signs of wildlife infestation regularly, such as damaged insulation or droppings, is crucial for long-term prevention.
Stay Vigilant and Protect Your Investment: Next Steps
Purchasing a home, especially one that has been vacant for a while, requires more than just a standard property inspection. The risk of wildlife infestation in North Carolina is particularly high for homes near water sources. By knowing the signs of wildlife infestation and taking preventative steps, you can avoid the costly and dangerous problems that come with wild animals taking up residence in your home. Call Varmint Gone to inspect a vacant property before buying, and communicate with your neighbors to stay informed about local wildlife issues. With proper vigilance and care, you can protect your investment and keep your home wildlife-free for years to come.
At Varmint Gone, we have prided ourselves on providing fast and reliable wildlife removal services to homeowners and commercial facilities since 1983. With our wildlife exclusion jobs, we include a five-year warranty. This warranty covers all repairs and construction exclusion work against certain wildlife. Call Varmint Gone today at 888-391-3330 or schedule an inspection online to resolve your wildlife situation. Protect your home from exterior damage and ensure peace of mind with the help of our expert team.
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