Job Overview

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Three-storey Victorian century home
Problem: Raccoon activity on roof with mobile young present
Service: Humane raccoon removal and roofline exclusion
Visits: Two

Summary

Wildlife Shield was contacted regarding raccoon activity on a Victorian-style home where young raccoons were observed moving across the roof surface. An inspection confirmed access through a second-floor roof overhang. A two-visit humane removal and exclusion process was completed, with follow-up confirmation of successful eviction and secure repairs.

Background / Property Context

The property is a multi-storey century home with slate roofing, brick masonry, and stepped rooflines. The second-floor roof overhang created sheltered voids along flashing and soffit transitions, which can be vulnerable on older structures when materials deteriorate over time.

Customer Concern

The homeowner reported repeated raccoon activity on the roof and observed young raccoons moving independently. There were concerns about further damage to the roof structure and continued access into the home if the animals were not removed properly.

Inspection & Findings

During the initial inspection, technicians identified an entry point at the second-floor roof overhang. Signs of nesting activity were present, including displaced insulation and debris on the roof surface below the entry area. The young raccoons were confirmed to be mobile, allowing for the use of one-way exclusion methods.

 

 

Cause Analysis

Raccoons commonly target roof overhangs on older homes due to weakened wood, aged flashing, and sheltered access points. Elevated rooflines provide safety from ground threats while offering proximity to attic voids suitable for denning. Once access is established, repeated use can quickly worsen existing structural gaps.

Treatment / Removal

On the first visit, a humane removal strategy was implemented by Richard and Blerti. A raccoon-specific one-way door was installed over the identified entry point to allow the adult raccoon to exit while preventing re-entry. Given that the young were mobile, an additional one-way door was installed to allow them to vacate the structure safely on their own.

Exclusion & Repairs

Approximately ten feet of galvanized steel mesh was installed along the roof overhang to reinforce the vulnerable area and prevent future access. The mesh was securely fastened to follow the roofline contours and flashing transitions. No access limitations were encountered during installation.

Outcome & Confirmation

At the follow-up visit, the homeowner reported no further raccoon activity. All one-way doors were removed, and the exclusion work was inspected and found to be intact with no signs of tampering or re-entry. The roof overhang remained secure, and no additional wildlife activity was observed.

Technician Notes

• Entry point located at second-floor roof overhang
• Mobile young confirmed prior to exclusion
• One-way doors functioned as intended
• Galvanized mesh installed without structural limitations
• Final inspection confirmed successful removal and exclusion

This work was completed by our Toronto Wildlife control team. For Wildlife control inquiries in Toronto, contact 647-496-2211.