In cities like Hamilton, Burlington, and Oakville, squirrels are a familiar sight—darting through trees, crossing hydro lines, or scampering across rooftops. While they may appear harmless, squirrels can pose serious dangers when they make their way into homes and begin chewing through electrical wiring. The risk to homeowners is not just nuisance or minor repair costs, but potential fire hazards, extensive property damage, and liability concerns.

This blog explores the real threats posed by squirrels inside residential structures, particularly regarding electrical systems, and offers insight into how homeowners can mitigate these risks with support from professional pest control providers like Action Pest.

Why Do Squirrels Chew Wires?

Squirrels, like all rodents, have continuously growing incisors. To prevent these teeth from overgrowing, squirrels instinctively gnaw on hard surfaces—including wood, insulation, PVC pipes, and, most concerningly, electrical wires. The plastic coatings on electrical wiring within attics, basements, and wall cavities mimic the texture of natural materials and are often chewed through when squirrels establish nesting areas inside a home.

Once inside, squirrels will build nests using insulation, cardboard, or fabric and can cause significant damage in a short amount of time—especially during colder months when they seek warmth and shelter.

Fire Hazards and Property Damage

Chewed electrical wiring is a leading cause of rodent-related residential fires. According to the Electrical Safety Authority of Ontario, damaged wires increase the likelihood of short circuits, electrical arcing, and overloads. In older homes, where wiring systems may already be strained, rodent interference can escalate the risk dramatically.

In addition to fire hazards, squirrel activity can cause:

  • Power outages or flickering lights due to interrupted current flow
  • Damage to HVAC systems and electrical panels
  • Flooding if pipes or sump pump lines are damaged
  • Costly insulation and drywall repair
  • Contamination from droppings, urine, and nesting debris

The longer squirrels are left untreated, the more extensive the damage is likely to become—leading to higher remediation costs and potentially voided insurance claims if proper maintenance is not demonstrated.

Legal and Insurance Considerations for Ontario Homeowners

Under Ontario’s Occupiers’ Liability Act, homeowners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. Allowing wildlife, such as squirrels, to remain in a residence without taking corrective action may expose the homeowner to civil liability in the event of injury or property loss.

Moreover, many home insurance policies have specific exclusions related to damage caused by rodents or other wildlife. Claims may be denied if the insurer deems the damage preventable through routine maintenance and early detection. That’s why prompt professional intervention is not just a practical step—it’s also a legal safeguard.

Signs of Squirrel Infestation in the Home

Residents in Hamilton and Burlington should be alert to the following warning signs:

  • Scratching or gnawing sounds, especially in the attic or walls
  • Droppings in insulation or near entry points
  • Chewed electrical cords or evidence of nesting material
  • Sudden power disruptions or unexplained flickering
  • Entry holes along the roofline or eavestroughs

Early identification and action can prevent minor nuisance from escalating into full-blown structural or fire damage.

Trust Action Pest for Expert Squirrel Removal and Prevention

Professional wildlife control is essential to safely and humanely remove squirrels and secure your home from future invasions. Action Pest provides effective, legally compliant exclusion techniques, repairs, and ongoing prevention for homes across Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding areas.

Technicians at Action Pest are fully trained in wildlife removal practices that align with Ontario’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and Electrical Safety Code standards, ensuring not only animal safety but homeowner protection.

Contact Action Pest today at 905.318.1242 or visit actionpest.ca to book an inspection and defend your home against unseen electrical risks.