Raccoons may look cute from afar, but once they enter your home, they bring noise, mess, and health risks. If you have scheduled raccoon removal in Ann Arbor, taking a few steps before the professionals arrive can make the process faster and safer. Preparing your home properly ensures the experts can focus on removing the raccoons and preventing them from returning.
Inspect Your Property Beforehand
Before the removal team shows up, take a walk around your home. Look for signs like torn shingles, bent vents, or claw marks near the roof. Raccoons often enter through weak spots in attics, chimneys, or crawl spaces. Making a note of these areas helps the experts know exactly where to begin.
Inside the house, check for droppings, chewed wires, or damaged insulation. You don’t need to fix these issues yourself, but pointing them out gives the removal team a head start.
Clear Access Points for the Team
Raccoon removal specialists often need to move through attics, basements, or tight crawl spaces. Clear the paths leading to these spaces before they arrive. For example, remove boxes or stored items blocking access points. This saves time and avoids delays during the inspection.
If you have outdoor sheds or garages that might be entry spots, unlock them in advance. Easy access allows the team to do a thorough job without needing to stop and wait for you.
Secure Pets and Children
Raccoon removal involves setting up traps and handling areas where wildlife has been active. For safety, keep pets in another part of the house or outside if possible. Children should also avoid these spaces until the process is complete. This step reduces risks and helps the professionals focus on their work without distractions.
Reduce Food Sources Outside
Raccoons are skilled scavengers, and any food left outside can keep them coming back. Before the service team arrives, make sure trash bins are sealed tightly. If you have pet food bowls outdoors, bring them inside. Even bird feeders can attract raccoons, so consider removing them until the problem is resolved. By reducing food sources, you make your property less appealing to raccoons once they are gone.
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Prepare for Some Noise and Activity
During the removal process, you may hear movement in your attic or see the team going in and out of your home. This is normal. Preparing yourself for a bit of noise and activity will help reduce stress. If possible, plan quiet activities in another part of the house while the professionals handle the raccoons.
Ask Questions and Stay Informed
One of the best ways to feel comfortable during the process is to ask questions. Professionals are happy to explain what they are doing, how the traps work, and what steps will keep raccoons out in the future. Having a clear idea of the process not only builds trust but also helps you learn how to protect your home long-term.
Clean and Repair After Removal
After raccoons are safely removed, the next step is to clean and repair. Raccoons often leave behind droppings, nesting material, and damaged insulation. These can carry health risks if left untreated. Once the professionals finish their work, arrange for a cleanup and repair of any damaged spots. Sealing these areas also prevents other raccoons or wildlife from entering again.
Wrapping It Up
Preparing your home for raccoon removal doesn’t have to be stressful. By checking entry points, clearing spaces, and keeping pets safe, you make the job smoother for the experts. Once the raccoons are gone, taking steps to clean and secure your home will ensure they don’t return. If you live nearby and need help, reliable raccoon trapping services in Novi can provide the right support to restore peace in your home.
