Attic Problems
Something in the Attic?
Noises in the attic are one of the most common reasons Savannah homeowners reach out. The sound alone may not tell you what animal is up there — but it does tell you it's time to look closer.
What You Might Be Hearing or Seeing
The signs of an animal in the attic can vary. Some are sounds, some are visible, and some are smells. Any of these can be a reason to take a closer look.
- Scratching or scurrying sounds above the ceiling
- Thumping or heavy movement, especially at night
- Chewing or gnawing sounds, often during the day
- High-pitched chirping or squeaking at dusk and dawn
- Droppings in the attic or near vents
- Unusual odors coming from the ceiling or walls
- Nesting material or debris near roof openings
- Damaged vents, soffit gaps or roofline openings
Pathways
Noise Alone May Not Identify the Species
The time of day, the type of sound, and what you can see can all help narrow it down. Here's where different signs tend to lead.
Raccoons
Heavy thumping at night, torn soffits or shingles
Learn moreSquirrels
Scurrying and chewing during the day, especially morning
Learn moreBats
Chirping at dusk, staining near entry points, guano in attic
Learn moreRodents
Scratching in walls, droppings, gnaw marks
Learn moreOther Wildlife
Not sure what it is — that's okay, start here
Learn moreWhy the Attic Is So Common
Attics are warm, dry and quiet — which makes them attractive to a variety of wildlife. In Savannah's older homes, rooflines, soffits and vents can offer multiple ways in. Once an animal is established in an attic, it can damage insulation, wiring and ductwork — so the sooner it's addressed, the better.
The key is not just removing the animal but understanding how it got in. That's what prevents the same problem from happening again with a different animal.
Tell us what you've heard or seen.
You don't need to know what animal it is. Describe the sounds, the times, and where in the house — we'll help you figure out what might be happening.