Every quotation for this work talks about insulation, cabling and timber. Almost none of them mentions what most Sudbury lofts are actually full of, which is the household's belongings.
It is frequently the loss people care about most and the one nothing covers.
What a loft is used for
Christmas decorations, suitcases, children's things kept for the next child, photographs and albums, paperwork, books, spare textiles and bedding, camping gear, tools, and the boxes that came with appliances. Much of it is kept precisely because it is not replaceable.
What happens to it
- Textiles are shredded for nesting material. Anything soft is first choice — bedding, curtains, soft toys, clothing
- Cardboard is opened and its contents redistributed
- Paper is torn up. Documents and photographs are excellent nest lining from a squirrel's point of view
- Everything is contaminated by droppings and urine, which is usually what makes an item unsalvageable rather than physical damage
- Plastic is gnawed, including storage boxes and the cases of stored equipment
- Items get knocked down between joists into the insulation, where they are hard to find
Contamination is the real problem, not chewing. A box that has been nested in cannot simply be dusted off. That is why the answer is prevention rather than repair.
How to store things so this does not happen
- Rigid plastic boxes with clip-on lids, not cardboard. They are not chew-proof, but they are a real barrier and they keep contamination out
- Nothing soft left loose. Textiles sealed inside boxes, not in bin bags
- Off the insulation. Boxes on boarding rather than sitting in the wool, which keeps them out of the nesting layer
- Irreplaceable things somewhere else. Photographs, documents and anything of real personal value do not belong in an unheated, uninspected roof space at all
- A look every year. A five-minute check with a torch is how most problems get found early
If it has already happened
Deal with the activity first — sorting through a loft while something is living in it is neither pleasant nor sensible. Afterwards, work with gloves, a fitted mask and eye protection, damp material down rather than raising dust, and be realistic about what is worth keeping. Contaminated soft material is better discarded than cleaned.
Photograph the damage before clearing, in case there is any insurance position to discuss, and check the policy wording rather than assuming — damage caused by vermin is commonly excluded.
Questions
Are plastic boxes squirrel-proof?
Not entirely, but they are a real improvement on cardboard and they keep contamination off the contents.
Can contaminated items be cleaned?
Hard surfaces, generally yes. Soft furnishings, textiles and paper that have been nested in are usually better discarded.
Should I empty the loft before the work?
No need, but clear access to the hatch and say if the space is heavily boarded or stacked.
Squirrel Control Sudbury
Squirrel control in Sudbury is £280 fixed cost. Proofing work, where it is needed afterwards, is £180. Call 01502 630 122 and tell us what you have heard or seen.
For squirrel control in Sudbury, call 01502 630 122, or read the Sudbury squirrel control page.