4 Signs Your Old Home Needs Professional Bat Removal

That antiquated home may have all the charm that old homes are known for, but older homes can have some very specific issues to address. Older homes that remain vacant for an extended period of time can be attractive places for a bat colony to make a home. While a bat or two may be no big deal, a bat colony can consist of hundreds of winged mammals literally hanging out in your old home's attic. Because these creatures are nocturnal, a lot of property owners don't catch on when there is a need for bat removal for a while. Check out these telltale signs that your old house needs professional bat removal. 

An Unmistakable Ammonia Odor Throughout the House 

Bat urine is high in ammonia. Therefore, if you have a bat issue in your old house, you can expect to smell ammonia pretty significantly. Even if the bats are staying only in the attic, the smell can permeate the other surfaces in the house and in the main living areas. A lot of people smell this odor in an old house and assume a stray animal or two has been inside and left urine, which would mean the odor could be cleaned up or would dissipate. However, with a bat issue, the odor will be strong and consistent. Even after the bats are removed, repair and restoration processes must be done to eradicate the tainted materials. 

Odd Sounds and Noises from the Attic 

You may not see the bats, but you can usually hear them if there are many in the attic of the home. Bats will be mostly quiet through the daylight hours, but you may still hear some occasional squeaking or movement. A lot of people with an old home will call an exterminator when they hear noises in the attic with the belief they have a rodent issue. However, upon closer inspection, the exterminator may recommend a bat removal expert for the job. 

Holes in Siding or in the Ceiling with Surrounding Stains 

Bats will gnaw their way through certain points in the house to make access and exit points. This is especially the case if you are dealing with a large colony. The holes the bats will make are often soiled around the perimeter. As the bats fly through the openings, they often drop droppings and urine that leave behind dark stains. For example, if you spot a hole in the ceiling drywall and the hole appears to be stained brown or black around it, this may be a sign that you have a bat infestation in the house.  

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