Having raccoons in your crawl space is more than just a nuisance. These intelligent, nocturnal creatures can wreak havoc on your home, spreading diseases, causing costly damage, and disrupting your peace of mind. If you suspect raccoons have moved in under your home, you’re not alone. This guide will provide the steps you need to take for raccoon removal and highlight how to prevent these unwelcome guests from returning.
From identifying the signs of raccoon activity to understanding the risks they pose, you’ll learn everything you need to know—including when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Identifying Raccoons in the Crawl Space
Raccoons are resourceful animals known for exploiting crawl spaces as a cozy nesting spot. But how can you tell if they’ve made themselves at home on your property? Here are some telltale signs:
- Nocturnal Activity: Raccoons are active at night. Scratching, thumping, or chittering noises after dark could indicate their presence.
- Tracks and Droppings: Look for small, hand-like tracks near the crawl space or distinctive droppings around the area.
- Nesting Materials: Raccoons often gather insulation, paper, and other debris to create nests.
- Odors: A musky, unpleasant smell could indicate raccoon urine or droppings.
- Damaged Insulation or Wiring: Raccoons may tear insulation for nesting or chew electrical wiring, which can be dangerous.
- Visible Entry Points: Check for gaps, broken vent covers, or other openings that provide access to your crawl space.
If you see one or more of these signs, it’s time to act.
Risks and Dangers of Raccoons in Your Crawl Space
Raccoons may seem harmless at first glance, but their presence in your crawl space can lead to serious issues. Here’s why it’s crucial to address the problem promptly:
Health Hazards
Raccoons are carriers of diseases and parasites, such as:
- Raccoon Roundworm (Baylisascaris): A parasite that can infect humans and pets through contaminated feces.
- Rabies: Though rare, raccoons are known carriers of the rabies virus.
- Leptospirosis: This bacterial infection spreads through urine and can contaminate nearby soil or water.
- Other Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mites are often introduced by raccoons.
Property Damage
- Insulation Damage: Shredded insulation leads to energy inefficiency and higher utility bills.
- Wiring and Pipe Damage: Gnawed wires increase fire risks, while damaged pipes can cause leaks.
- Structural Issues: Continuous digging or burrowing might destabilize your home’s foundation.
- Foul Odors: Raccoon droppings and urine can make living conditions unpleasant.
Dealing with raccoons is not just about reclaiming your crawl space; it’s also about safeguarding your health and property.
Contact Us for Emergency Raccoon Removal
How to Remove Raccoons from Your Crawl Space
Once you’ve identified raccoons in your crawl space, the next step is removal. Here are the two main options:
1. Humane DIY Methods
If local regulations permit, you can try these humane approaches to remove raccoons yourself:
- Encouragement to Leave: Use bright lights and loud sounds to make the space less inviting.
- Exclusion Techniques: Install a one-way door on the entry point, allowing the raccoons to leave but not re-enter.
- Check for Nests: Ensure there are no baby raccoons left behind before sealing the space.
Always wear protective gear and consider consulting local Indiana wildlife removal laws to remain compliant.
2. Call the Professionals
Professional raccoon removal services offer several advantages:
- Safe and humane capture techniques.
- Expertise in finding and sealing entry points.
- Disinfection of the crawl space to remove health hazards.
- Compliance with Indiana regulations regarding wildlife relocation.
- A guarantee or warranty to ensure raccoons don’t return.
By choosing professional raccoon removal services, you save time, reduce risks, and gain the peace of mind that the job is done right.
Prevention Tips for Keeping Raccoons Out
Once you’ve removed raccoons from your crawl space, the next step is prevention to ensure they don’t come back. Here are some effective tips:
☑ Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home for gaps, broken vents, or cracks that raccoons could use as entryways. Install steel mesh or reinforced material to cover these openings.
☑ Secure Food Sources
Raccoons are scavengers. Keep pet food, trash cans, and compost bins securely sealed to avoid attracting them.
☑ Trim Trees and Shrubs
Raccoons are skilled climbers. Trim any tree branches near your home to reduce access points to the roof or crawl space.
☑ Install Motion Detectors or Deterrents
Using motion-activated lights or sprinklers can discourage raccoons from approaching your home.
☑ Maintain the Crawl Space
Keep the crawl space clean and dry. Remove potential nesting materials like old insulation or debris to make it less inviting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raccoon Removal
What are the signs of raccoons in my crawl space?
Look for noises at night, tracks, droppings, nesting materials, or damaged insulation.
Is it safe to remove raccoons on my own?
DIY methods can be effective but risky due to potential disease exposure and aggressive raccoon behavior. Professional assistance is often safer.
What diseases can raccoons carry?
Raccoons may carry rabies, raccoon roundworm, leptospirosis, and parasites like fleas and ticks.
How can I prevent raccoons from entering my crawl space?
Seal entry points, secure food sources, and use motion-activated deterrents.
What should I do if I find a raccoon nest in my crawl space?
Avoid disturbing the nest. Contact a professional to safely and humanely remove it.
Are there Indiana regulations about raccoon removal?
Yes, check local ordinances for rules around trapping and relocating raccoons.
How much does professional raccoon removal cost?
Costs vary but typically range from $150 to $500, depending on the complexity.
What methods do professionals use to remove raccoons humanely?
They use live traps, exclusion doors, and other techniques that minimize stress to the animals.
Take Action to Protect Your Home
Ignoring raccoons in your crawl space can lead to serious health and property issues. Effective removal and prevention measures are essential to safeguarding your home and family.
If you’re dealing with raccoons in your crawl space, don’t wait. Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal today for professional, humane raccoon trapping and exclusion services, and reclaim your space with confidence.
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