Attic Infestations: What Every Homeowner Should Know
Your attic might be the perfect spot for holiday decorations or old keepsakes, but unfortunately, it’s also a favorite hiding place for unwanted guests. From tiny insects and rodents to larger wildlife like raccoons, squirrels, and bats, attics in the Midwest are especially prone to becoming a refuge for all kinds of critters—especially when harsh winters or seasonal weather shifts drive animals indoors. If you’ve ever heard strange noises overhead or noticed unusual smells, it’s worth considering the possibility that something uninvited has moved in.
Common Attic Invaders in the Midwest
Mice and rats are common offenders. These small rodents can squeeze through even the smallest openings in the roof, walls, or foundation. Once inside, they can damage insulation, chew through wires, and contaminate surfaces with droppings that may carry harmful bacteria or viruses. Squirrels, with their natural climbing abilities, often find their way in through roof vents or gaps in the eaves. Once inside, they can create nests, chew on electrical wiring, and block ventilation. Raccoons, larger and far more destructive, may tear into roofing materials or enter through already damaged areas. They often create nesting spaces for their young, leading to even more mess and damage to insulation, wiring, and ductwork. Bats, while smaller, present their own risks. They’re drawn to the attic for its quiet and dark conditions and can enter through tiny gaps. While they don’t chew through materials like rodents, their droppings can produce strong odors and pose serious health risks, including histoplasmosis.
Why Do Animals Choose Attics?
Wild animals choose attics primarily for shelter and nesting. In winter, attics offer warmth and protection from the elements. In summer, they offer a quiet, secure space for raising offspring. Unfortunately, this often means ongoing or repeated infestations if the space isn’t properly sealed and cleaned. Aside from the property damage, there are real health concerns to consider—many of these animals carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans through droppings, urine, or bites. And attempting to remove wildlife on your own can be dangerous. Animals with nests may become aggressive, and handling infected or protected species (like bats) can lead to legal or medical trouble.
What To Do if You Suspect a Wildlife Infestation
If you suspect something has moved into your attic, it’s critical to act quickly—but safely. Call a trained professional to inspect the space and remove animals humanely. The Attic Experts offers free attic inspections and has more than 30 years of experience helping homeowners in the Chicago area deal with infestations the right way. We remove contaminated material, restore the attic space, and help prevent future invasions. Our team also helps customers navigate homeowners insurance claims, as infestations and decontamination are often covered. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners document damage and recover costs after an infestation.
The Attic Experts: Here to Help
If you need help, call The Attic Experts today at 630.941.3800. We’re here to help you reclaim your attic—and your peace of mind.