Unmasking the Menace Raccoon Property Damage

1. Unmasking the Menace of Raccoon Property Damage 416-429-5393 833-833-4295 hawkeye@hawkeye.ca

2. How Raccoons Wreak Havoc on Your Home and Wallet • Adorable Facade, Destructive Guests: Cute faces hide their talent for ruining homes, costing you dearly. • Motivated Mischief: Warmth and food make your property a potential den. • Arm Your Knowledge: Understand their behaviour and weak spots to prevent trouble.

3. Common Areas at Risk of Raccoon Infestations and Damage Inside the Home: • Attics: Insulation damage (tearing, nesting) Structural damage (weight, movement on beams) Electrical hazards (wire chewing) Contamination (droppings, urine) • Walls: Entry points (chewing through siding, fascia) Insulation access (interior walls) • Chimneys and Vents: Entry points Damage to screens

4. Common Areas at Risk of Raccoon Infestations and Damage Outside the Home: • Roof: Shingle and soffit damage (entry points) Leaky roof from chewed gutters • Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged by debris, leaves, and nesting materials • Gardens and Lawns: Digging for grubs and worms (holes, damaged plants) • Trash Cans: Raiding for food, scattering contents, creating messes

5. Types of Raccoon Property Damage Structural Damage: • Chewed wires, insulation, and wooden structures. • Entry points in attics, crawl spaces, and vents. Garden Issues: • Raccoons may dig up lawns in search of insects. • Damage to crops, especially fruits and vegetables.

6. Types of Raccoon Property Damage Feces and Urine: • Raccoon droppings may carry diseases. • Potential health risks for humans and pets. Signs of Infestation: • Scratching noises in the attic. • Visible damage to property. • Presence of feces and footprints.

7. Ways to Keep Raccoons Out of Your Property • Seal Up Holes and Gaps: This is the most important step in preventing raccoons from entering your property. Look for holes in your roof, foundation, soffits, fascia, and around pipes and wires. • Trim Tree Branches: Raccoons can use tree branches to access your roof or attic. • Secure Chimneys and Vents: Use chimney caps and vent covers with wire mesh to prevent raccoons from entering. • Store Trash Cans Securely: Keep your trash cans in a garage or shed or use heavy-duty cans with tight-fitting lids. • Don't Leave Pet Food Outside: Bring in pet food at night or store it in a sealed container. • Inspect Your Property Regularly: Look for signs of raccoons, such as footprints, droppings, or damage.

8. When to Seek Help from Professionals • Confirmed Infestation: You hear scratching, rustling, or see droppings inside your home. Don't attempt DIY removal - professionals have the expertise and equipment for safe, humane handling. • Mama on Board: Witnessing baby raccoons or hearing vocalizations suggests a den. Professionals understand removal strategies that consider their sensitive needs. • Extensive Damage: If raccoon activity has led to significant structural damage, electrical hazards, or widespread contamination, professionals can assess the problem, remove the raccoons, and recommend repairs. • Aggressive Behaviour: Encountering a cornered or frightened raccoon attempting to attack. Don't risk injury - professionals have the training and tools for safe capture and relocation. • Uncertain DIY Results: If you’ve tried exclusion methods without success or are unsure about identifying entry points and sealing them effectively. Professionals ensure a complete solution, preventing future incursions.

9. Reference Links • How to Trap Raccoons That Are in Your Attic and Chimney • How Can I Protect Myself from Common Raccoon Diseases? • Why Should Toronto Residents Avoid Contact with Raccoons? • Benefits of Preventive Raccoon Control: How Can Hawkeye Help Protect Your Property? • 10 Tell-Tale Signs You Have a Raccoon in Your Home

10. Contact Us Hawkeye in Canada 416-429-5393 Hawkeye in U.S.A 833-833-4295 hawkeye@hawkeye.ca

11. Thank you