Squirrels might seem harmless enough bounding across your garden, but once they get into your roof space or loft, the situation changes fast. Grey squirrels, the species responsible for the vast majority of squirrel pest control call-outs in the UK can chew through electrical cables, destroy loft insulation, contaminate water tanks and cause structural damage that costs thousands of pounds to repair.
If you have noticed scratching noises from above, found droppings in your loft, or spotted a squirrel repeatedly entering a gap in your roofline, this guide covers everything you need to know: the warning signs, the legal position, what professional removal involves, and why acting quickly protects both your home and your wallet.
Why Squirrels Become a Pest Problem in UK Homes
The grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) was introduced to the UK from North America in the 1870s and is now listed as an invasive non-native species. Unlike red squirrels, which are a protected species, grey squirrels have no legal protection in fact, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019, it is actually illegal to release a trapped grey squirrel back into the wild once caught.
Squirrels typically move into loft spaces and roof voids in search of warmth, shelter and a safe place to nest particularly in autumn and early spring. They are persistent and determined, capable of gnawing through timber, lead flashing, plastic pipe work and even junction boxes to gain access or build their nests.
A single squirrel can cause significant damage. A nesting pair or a family group can be catastrophic.
Signs You Have Squirrels in Your Loft or Roof
Catching a squirrel infestation early makes the removal process considerably more straightforward. These are the most common signs to watch for:
Scratching or scurrying noises – Typically heard in the early morning or late afternoon, often from the loft, eaves or walls. Squirrels are diurnal, meaning they are active during daylight hours, which distinguishes them from rats (which tend to be more active at night).
Droppings – Squirrel droppings are roughly barrel-shaped, around 8mm long, and reddish-brown to dark in colour. They are commonly found near entry points or nesting areas.
Gnaw marks – On timber joists, cables, pipework or stored items in the loft. Chewed electrical wiring is a serious fire risk and should be treated as an emergency.
Nesting material – Squirrels build dreys from leaves, twigs, insulation and any soft material they can find. If you spot a large mound of debris in your loft, that is almost certainly a nest.
Entry points – Visible gaps, gnawed fascia boards or displaced roof tiles around the eaves, soffits or roof ridge.
Daytime sightings – If squirrels are repeatedly entering the same spot on your roof, they have almost certainly established a nest inside.
The Legal Position on Squirrel Removal in the UK
This is where many homeowners run into trouble with DIY approaches. Under UK law, grey squirrels can be trapped using a live cage trap or killed humanely, but they cannot be released back into the wild once caught. Any release constitutes an offence under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, with potential fines and prosecution.
This makes professional squirrel pest control not just a practical choice but often the legally safest one. A qualified pest controller understands the relevant legislation, uses appropriate methods and disposes of squirrels in a manner that is fully compliant with current regulations.
For further guidance on the legal framework, the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) of which Sun Pest Control is a proud member, publishes up-to-date information.
Why DIY Squirrel Control Rarely Works
There is no shortage of products marketed as DIY squirrel deterrents, from ultrasonic repellers and peppermint sprays to homemade cage traps. In practice, most deliver disappointing results for several reasons.
Squirrels adapt quickly. They are intelligent animals and will often work around deterrents within days, particularly if a nest is already established.
Entry points are easy to miss. A professional inspection identifies every gap, crack and potential access route. A DIY approach typically blocks the most obvious entry point while missing the others, meaning the squirrels simply find a new way in, sometimes causing more damage in the process.
Partial treatment creates new problems. Blocking an entry point while squirrels are still inside traps them, which causes further damage as they attempt to escape and raises welfare concerns.
Live traps require daily checking. Under animal welfare legislation, live cage traps must be checked at least once every 24 hours. Failing to do so is a legal offence.
The most reliable and humane outcome is a professional squirrel control treatment that combines proofing, removal and follow-up to ensure the problem is fully resolved.
What Professional Squirrel Pest Control Involves
When you contact Sun Pest Control about a squirrel problem, here is what the process typically looks like.
Initial survey and assessment – A qualified technician inspects the property inside and out, identifying active entry points, evidence of nesting, the scale of the infestation and any immediate damage concerns such as gnawed wiring.
Bespoke treatment plan – Depending on the findings, treatment may involve placement of approved bait stations, live trapping, or a combination of methods. All work is carried out in accordance with current UK legislation and BPCA guidelines.
Proofing and exclusion – Once the squirrels have been removed, the entry points are sealed using appropriate materials to prevent re-entry. This is a critical step that many DIY approaches skip entirely, resulting in repeat infestations.
Follow-up visits – Squirrel control often requires more than one visit to be fully effective. Sun Pest Control includes follow-up inspections to confirm the problem has been resolved and that no new activity is present.
Advice on prevention – You will also receive practical guidance on reducing the risk of future infestations, such as cutting back overhanging tree branches that provide roof access and ensuring any gaps in the roofline are addressed promptly.
Sun Pest Control operates across London and the surrounding areas, covering locations including Wimbledon, Kingston, Croydon, Sutton, Merton and beyond.
The Damage Squirrels Can Cause and Why Speed Matters
One of the most commonly underestimated aspects of a squirrel infestation is how quickly the damage accumulates. A squirrel’s incisors never stop growing, which means gnawing is a biological necessity rather than a behavioural choice. Everything in their path is a potential target.
Electrical wiring – This is the most serious concern. Gnawed cables can cause short circuits and house fires. According to research published by the Electrical Safety First Charity, rodent damage to wiring is a significant contributor to domestic electrical fires in the UK.
Loft insulation – Squirrels will shred and contaminate insulation material to build their nests, reducing its effectiveness and creating a potential health hazard from droppings and urine.
Structural timber – Repeated gnawing on joists and rafters weakens structural integrity over time.
Water pipes and tanks – In extreme cases, squirrels will gnaw through plastic pipework and contaminate open water tanks.
The cost of delay – A single-squirrel problem treated promptly is straightforward and affordable. A long-established colony with associated wiring damage, structural repairs and contamination clean-up is a very different proposition. Early intervention is always the most cost-effective approach.
Squirrel Proofing: Keeping Them Out for Good
Removal alone is only half the job. Effective squirrel pest control always includes a proofing element to close off the access routes squirrels have been using and any other vulnerable points around the roofline.
Common proofing measures include:
- Sealing gaps in soffits, fascias and eaves with appropriate mesh or sealant
- Repairing or replacing damaged lead flashing around chimney stacks
- Installing chimney caps or bird guards where applicable
- Trimming back trees and large shrubs that overhang the roof by at least two metres
- Checking and repairing any displaced roof tiles or ridge capping
Sun Pest Control’s technicians carry out thorough proofing as part of every squirrel treatment, ensuring your property is protected against re-entry.
FAQs
How do I know if I have squirrels in my loft?
Squirrels are active during the day, so scratching in the morning or afternoon is a common sign. Their droppings are also larger than mouse droppings. A pest control inspection can confirm the problem.
Is it legal to kill squirrels in the UK?
Yes, grey squirrels can be killed humanely in the UK. They are not protected, but red squirrels are protected and must not be harmed.
Can I get rid of squirrels myself?
DIY squirrel control is rarely effective. Poisons and control products are restricted, and incorrect treatment can create legal and safety risks.
How long does squirrel removal take?
Squirrel removal usually takes two to three visits over one to two weeks, depending on the size of the infestation.
How much does squirrel pest control cost?
The cost depends on your property, access, infestation level and any proofing work needed. Sun Pest Control provides clear quotes after a survey.
Will squirrels come back after treatment?
They can return if entry points are left open. Proper proofing helps stop squirrels getting back into your loft.
Do squirrels carry diseases?
Yes, grey squirrels can carry diseases and parasites such as leptospirosis, salmonella, fleas and ticks.
