26 Dec

Squirrel Entry Through Chimney and Utility Line on Large Manor Home – North York

Job Overview

Location: North York, Ontario
Structure: Large manor-style residential home with multiple roofs and attic spaces
Problem: Squirrel activity within walls and attic
Service: Humane squirrel removal and full exterior exclusion
Visits: Four visits

Summary

Wildlife Shield was contacted after the homeowner reported early-morning noises coming from inside the walls and attic spaces. Our inspection confirmed multiple squirrel entry points on a large, complex roofline. Over four visits, we installed and relocated one-way doors as new access points were identified, then completed permanent exclusion once activity had stopped.

Background / Property Context

The property is a very large manor house constructed of brick and stone, featuring multiple roof elevations, chimneys, vents, and attic voids. The height and layout of the structure required two technicians on site and careful access planning to safely inspect all potential entry points.

Customer Concern

The homeowner reported scratching and movement sounds inside the walls during early morning hours, consistent with squirrel activity. Ongoing noise raised concerns about damage and additional animals entering the home.

Inspection & Findings

Our initial inspection identified an opening at a dual chimney structure where squirrels were gaining access into the attic. Additional vulnerable areas included wall vents, soffit penetrations, and utility line entry points. During follow-up visits, a second squirrel entry was confirmed at a utility line penetration leading into the structure.

Photos show deteriorated masonry gaps, roof-level vent openings, and utility penetrations before and after screening with galvanized steel mesh.

 

 

Cause Analysis

Squirrels are active during daylight hours and commonly exploit elevated roof features for entry. On this property, multiple chimneys, vents, and service penetrations created opportunities where gaps had formed over time. The complexity and height of the roofline increased the likelihood of undetected secondary access points.

Treatment / Removal

On the first visit, our technicians installed a one-way squirrel door at the primary chimney opening to allow the animal to exit without re-entry. As new activity was reported and confirmed, the one-way door was relocated to newly discovered access points to address additional squirrels using different entry routes.

All removal work was conducted using humane, non-lethal methods.

Exclusion & Repairs

Galvanized steel mesh was installed over wall vents, soffit openings, plumbing vents, and utility line penetrations. Mesh was securely fastened and sealed with exterior-grade materials to prevent future access. Once activity had fully stopped, all one-way doors were removed and the remaining openings permanently sealed.

 

Outcome & Confirmation

On the final visit, the homeowner confirmed that all squirrel activity had ceased. The one-way doors were removed, exclusion work was inspected, and no further wildlife entry points were observed. No additional activity has been reported since completion.

Technician Notes

The work required multiple visits due to the size and complexity of the structure and the discovery of secondary entry points. The job was completed by our team with technicians Ardian and Richard coordinating roof-level access and exclusion work.

Contact us at 647-560-3988 for all your wildlife needs 

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