How Much Does Squirrel Removal Cost?
Squirrels in the attic are more than a nuisance—they are a serious hazard. The cost to remove squirrels and seal your home against re-entry ranges from $300 to $1,500 for most residential jobs, with an average around $500–$700 when exclusion work is included. Larger homes with multiple entry points or significant attic damage can run $1,500–$3,000 or more when insulation remediation is factored in.
What Is Included in a Professional Squirrel Removal?
A reputable wildlife removal company does much more than set a trap. A complete service typically includes:
- Inspection: A thorough examination of the roofline, soffits, fascia boards, vents, and attic interior to locate all active and potential entry points.
- Trapping or one-way exclusion devices: One-way doors allow squirrels to exit but not re-enter. Live traps are set near active entry points.
- Entry point sealing: All identified gaps are sealed with heavy-gauge hardware cloth, galvanized metal flashing, or concrete, depending on the location. Wood patches are not sufficient—squirrels will simply chew through them.
- Attic inspection: Documentation of chewed wiring, damaged insulation, nest material, and droppings.
- Follow-up visits: Checking traps and confirming the exclusion has been successful.
Why Squirrels in Your Attic Are Dangerous
Squirrels have teeth that never stop growing. They gnaw constantly—including on electrical wires. Chewed wiring is a leading cause of attic fires, and the National Fire Protection Association estimates that rodents chewing wires contribute to approximately 25% of house fires with unknown causes. Beyond fire risk, squirrels bring nesting material (leaves, insulation) that creates moisture and mold issues, and their urine and feces can saturate insulation, requiring full replacement.
The longer a squirrel problem goes unaddressed, the more expensive it becomes. A $400 exclusion job in January can become a $3,000 attic remediation by June if a litter is born and insulation is destroyed.
Trapping Alone Is Not Enough
Many homeowners make the mistake of hiring someone to trap squirrels without sealing the entry points. This approach fails for two reasons: first, new squirrels will simply move in through the same holes. Second, if babies are present in the attic, the trapped mother will be removed while dependent young are left behind to die—creating an odor problem and an even worse situation.
The correct approach is exclusion-first: seal all entry points except one, install a one-way exit device at that point, allow squirrels to leave on their own, then seal the final opening once all squirrels have exited. Trapping is used as a supplemental method, not the primary strategy.
Baby Squirrel Season: Do NOT Exclude During These Windows
This is critical: squirrels have two birthing seasons—February through April and August through September. Attempting exclusion during these windows risks trapping dependent young inside the attic, where they will die and decompose. Responsible wildlife removal companies will delay exclusion (or use a modified approach) during these periods. If a company does not ask about or account for birthing seasons, that is a red flag.
Signs You Have Squirrels in the Attic
- Scratching, scampering, or rolling sounds from the attic (most active at dawn and dusk)
- Visible damage to soffits, fascia boards, or vents from the outside
- Nesting debris near roofline gaps
- Droppings in the attic (similar to rat droppings but slightly larger and rounded at both ends)
- Chewed insulation or visible entry holes in the attic floor
- Squirrels seen repeatedly entering or exiting the roofline
Attic Remediation Costs
If squirrels have been in the attic for more than a few weeks, insulation is often contaminated with urine, feces, and nesting material. Full attic insulation removal and replacement typically costs $1,500–$3,000 depending on attic size. Some wildlife removal companies offer remediation as part of a bundled service; others will refer you to a separate contractor. Get a written estimate that specifies exactly what remediation work will be performed.
How to Choose a Wildlife Removal Pro
Look for companies that are licensed by your state’s wildlife or agricultural department. Ask specifically about their exclusion approach, whether they account for birthing seasons, and what their guarantee covers. Avoid companies that offer trapping-only services without exclusion work. Find a qualified wildlife removal specialist near you and get multiple quotes before choosing—pricing varies significantly. You can also visit our pest and wildlife guide for more information.