Why are pests in the roof a problem?

Some people are unbothered by having possums and birds in their roof, assuming that they do not cause any harm. While it is true that possums and birds do not have the same tendency to chew through insulation and wires as rodents do, possums can harbour diseases and can accidentally trap themselves inside your roof, killing themselves, and creating a pungent, unpleasant odour. On the other hand, allowing birds to nest in your roof, particularly the Indian Myna, has negative effects on surrounding native birds. Indian Myna birds build large, communal families that are noisy and drive out other birds within the area. Rodents are considered a major problem for households. Their incessant need to chew means that they will gnaw on the insulation and wires in between your walls or in your roof cavity. Rodents often chew through insulation casings that protect wires and once exposed, the wires become a safety hazard and may cause fires. In addition, rodents can spread harmful bacteria through interaction with their dropping or dust contaminated by their droppings. This bacteria is what causes diseases like leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and more!

How to get rid of birds in your roof?

A qualified technician is required to handle and remove birds from your property. There are specific regulations in place, differing according to each state and territory. Flick Anticimex is your qualified and trusted professional who provide bird control solutions for both residential and commercial customers. We can install a variety of bird control solutions including netting, shock systems, metal flashing and more. We also provide baiting and trapping services for pigeons, starling, Indian Mynas, and sparrows. Exclusive to Adelaide homes, we offer gutter shields and installation, perfect for those searching for a durable and discreet looking gutter guard. Gutter guards block the bird’s entry into the pipes that lead into the roof cavity. For more information, feel free to call 08 8133 1200 . Australian law protects Australian birds, however qualified technicians, like those at Flick, are allowed to control the activity of introduced species. For more information, feel free to read our Pest Bird Info Sheet .

How do we remove possums in the roof?

Possums are a beautiful part of Australian fauna and Flick Anticimex considers them a pivotal part of the Australian environment. Unfortunately, possums can be considered a nuisance for some, but there are stringent rules in place to control possums. Flick Anticimex technicians are licensed possum re-locators, who work according to the rules and regulations set by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Our possum control methods begin by temporarily re-locating the possum, by placing it under the care of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. While the possum is in their care, our technicians will install possum homes in neighbouring trees. This provides possums with an alternative, more suitable home. Holes in your roof or exterior of your home will also be patched up. Then, the possum will be released back into your neighbourhood. This ensures that the possum won’t be looking to build a nest in your home. In the event that you have a dead possum in your roof cavity, we provide a service to deal with this issue at an additional charge.

How do we control rats and mice?

We have a variety of rodent control measures including our new, intelligent rodent solution, Anticimex Smart which is exclusively offered to businesses. Flick Anticimex offers a variety of rodent bait stations and rodent baits that can be installed around your home. Our bait stations are locked and tamper-proof, keeping your pets and children safe. Unfortunately, rats and mice may take the bait away from the station, leaving residue outside of the box. We simply recommend that you regularly check and clean the area around your rodent bait station(s).

What pests are commonly found in roofs?

Common pests include birds, possums, and rodents (rats and mice).

What damage can possums cause in my roof?

Possums can cause noise disruption, damage insulation and wiring, and leave foul odors.

Do you hear sounds in the roof?

Hearing strange noises like scratching, scrabbling, or hissing in your roof is unsettling. These sounds are often a sign that pests have made their way into your home. Identifying what type of pest is causing the noise is the first step to resolving the issue. Different pests require different removal strategies, and acting quickly can prevent further damage to your property.

Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to understanding what might be lurking in your attic and how to deal with it effectively.

Common Pests That Make Sounds in Your Roof

Several pests are known to inhabit roofs and ceilings. Below are the most common culprits and the signs to look out for:

1. Birds

While birds may seem harmless outdoors, their presence in your roof can cause serious problems.

Signs of Birds in Your Roof:
- Flapping or fluttering sounds.
- Bird droppings on the exterior of your home or in the attic.
- Nesting materials like twigs or feathers.
Why Birds Are a Problem:
- Their droppings are acidic and can damage your roof and insulation.
- Birds can spread diseases through their droppings and parasites.
Solution:
- Install exclusion measures like bird netting or spikes to prevent them from roosting.
- Remove existing nests and clean the area thoroughly.

2. Possums

Possums are nocturnal creatures and can make a lot of noise when they inhabit your roof.

Signs of Possums in Your Roof:
- Loud thumps or pattering sounds, especially at night.
- Distinctive screeches, growls, hisses, or grunts.
- Droppings or foul odors in the attic.
Why Possums Are a Problem:
- They can disrupt your sleep with their noises.
- Possums may chew through electrical wiring or insulation, causing damage.
Solution:
- Seal entry points to prevent access.
- Use humane traps to capture and relocate the possums.
- Consider professional removal for faster and safer results.

3. Rodents (Rats and Mice)

Rodents are among the most common pests to invade roofs and attics.

Signs of Rodents in Your Roof:
- Scratching or scurrying sounds at night.
- Droppings near food storage areas or along walls.
- Chewed wires, insulation, or stored items.
Why Rodents Are a Problem:
- They carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans.
- Their constant gnawing can cause structural damage and even fire risks.
- Rodents can multiply rapidly, worsening the infestation.
Solution:
- Seal all potential entry points to stop more rodents from entering.
- Set traps in high-activity areas to capture them.
- Avoid rodenticides, as they can lead to rodents dying in hard-to-reach places, causing unpleasant odors.

How to Identify the Sounds in Your Roof

Different pests create distinct noises, which can help you narrow down the cause:

Noise	Likely Culprit	Time of Activity
Scratching or scurrying	Rodents	Night
Loud thumps or grunts	Possums	Night
Flapping or chirping	Birds	Early morning or daytime

If you’re unsure what’s causing the sounds, consider calling a pest control expert to assess the situation and identify the pest.

Why Quick Action Is Essential

Ignoring pests in your roof can lead to:

Structural Damage: Pests like rodents and possums can chew through insulation, wood, and even wiring.
Health Risks: Birds and rodents carry diseases that can pose risks to your family.
Increased Costs: The longer pests remain in your home, the more extensive (and expensive) the damage can become.

How Flick Can Help

At Flick Pest Control, we specialize in identifying and removing roof-dwelling pests. Our services include:

A thorough inspection to determine the type of pest.
Customized exclusion and removal plans tailored to your home.
Preventive measures to ensure pests don’t return.

Strange sounds in your roof are more than just an annoyance—they’re often a sign of a pest infestation. By identifying the culprit and taking swift action, you can protect your home from damage and keep your family safe.

Don’t let unwanted visitors take over your attic. Contact Flick Pest Control today to schedule an inspection and regain peace of mind!