When a wild animal or rodents have occupied an attic, crawl space or room, the contaminated surfaces and insulation harbor pathogens that remain virulent for several months. Cleaning with soap and water is insufficient and can even spread contaminants by aerosol. Professional decontamination eliminates the biological cause before it becomes a health problem.
Nova Extermination carries out certified decontamination on the South Shore, with professional equipment and biocides approved by Health Canada. License RBQ 5734 75930 01.
Areas concerned: attic, soffits, chimney, sometimes wall cavities (especially flying squirrels).
What pathogens are present and why it matters
Leptospirosis, salmonellosis, tularemia (rare), electrical damage by gnawing of wires, contamination of insulation.
These pathogens remain dangerous long after the animals have left: hantaviruses survive for several days in aerosols, leptospires for weeks in a humid environment, roundworm eggs for months. Particularly at risk: young children, the elderly, immunocompromised, pregnant women. Professional decontamination eliminates these vectors and certifies a return to a healthy environment.
Our decontamination protocol
removal of nesting material (leaves, twigs, shredded insulation), HEPA suction of feces, biocidal disinfection, checking and replacement of gnawed electrical wires, caulking of entry points.
Equipment used
- H13 class HEPA industrial vacuum cleaner (99.95 percent particle retention at 0.3 μm)
- Broad-spectrum biocides registered by Health Canada (Virkon, stabilized peroxide, rotating quaternary ammoniums)
- Full personal protective equipment (Tyvek suit, P100 half mask, nitrile gloves)
- Enzymatic odor neutralization (eliminates cause, not mask)
- Document camera for before/after photos (belayer)
Duration: half day typically.
Underwriting and Inspection
Here are the service variants we offer for this need:
- Spot decontamination (basement, shed, crawl space)
- Attic up to 600 sq. ft. with insulation setback
- Complete house after massive infestation
- Commercial decontamination (restaurant, warehouse)
What influences the quote
- Surface or volume to be treated
- Extent of the infestation or situation
- Accessibility of the areas concerned
- Response time requested (planned or emergency)
- Scope of the desired warranty
- Documentation required for insurer, notary or audit
The inspection is non-binding. We evaluate on site (or by phone as the case may be) and give you a written estimate adapted to your building before any work begins. No unpleasant surprises at the end.
Recommended next steps
Decontamination corrects the consequences of an infestation. To prevent it from happening again, several related services should be considered:
- Capture of squirrels
- decontamination
- Cellulose insulation after infestation
- Closure of animal entry points
Home insurance coverage
Many home insurance policies cover decontamination when a loss is proven (animal infestation, biological damage). We make it easy to make the claim by providing:
- Detailed evaluation report with before/after photos
- Precise identification of target species and pathogens
- Detailed invoice with batches of biocides used
- Signed decontamination certificate
Practical advice: call your insurer BEFORE starting the work. Check your deductible and get a claim number. This speeds up the repayment.
Questions
Should the house be evacuated during decontamination?
For an intervention in an attic or crawl space, generally not. For decontamination in the living room, eviction of 4 to 8 hours after application of the biocide is recommended.
Will the smell really disappear?
Yes 95 percent of the time, as long as all contaminated insulation is removed. Enzyme treatment neutralizes the biological cause. If the odor persists after 7 days, we schedule a follow-up according to your warranty.
Do I have to replace all the insulation every time?
Not systematically. It depends on the volume and depth of the contamination. Our report clearly indicates whether replacement is required.
How long does it take between the call and the intervention?
5 business days on average. For urgent cases (unbearable smell, presence of children or animals at risk), 48 to 72 hours.
How long does the effect of disinfection last?
Indefinitely, as long as no new infestation contaminates the area. For this reason, we consistently recommend that entry points be closed after decontamination.
Contact Nova Extermination
Inspection within 24 hours, quick intervention. Intervention the next day. Coverage assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the condition of the building. Call 514 666 6682 or fill out the contact form for squirrel decontamination.
Nova Extermination, RBQ license 5734 75930 01. Service 7 days a week, including public holidays. Health Canada Licensed Products.
Frequently Asked Questions: Squirrel Decontamination
What is squirrel decontamination?
This service includes the removal of squirrel droppings, food supplies and soiled insulation left behind by attics and attics. Our technicians then disinfect the surfaces and spot the damage caused by the gnawing. It is frequently used in the wooded houses of Saint-Bruno or Sainte-Julie where squirrels are introduced.
What damage do squirrels cause in an attic?
Squirrels gnaw on wood, electrical wires, and pipes, which can create fire and short circuit hazards. They also accumulate feces and urine that soils the insulation and gives off strong odours. Their presence requires decontamination and inspection of structural damage.
Is squirrel droppings a health hazard?
Yes, squirrel droppings can contain bacteria and parasites, including salmonella and worms, that can be transmitted to humans. They also attract fleas and mites to the attic. Our technicians remove these materials with the required protection according to the standards in force.
Should access be closed after decontamination?
Absolutely, because squirrels will gladly return to an already colonized site if it remains accessible. After sanitation, we recommend sealing roof openings, vents and soffit curbs used by the animal. This exclusion is intended to achieve a lasting result on a case-by-case basis on the South Shore.
Do you offer a guarantee against the return of squirrels?
We aim for sustainable results evaluated on a per-building basis, without promising absolute guarantees. A dilapidated roof, overhanging trees or unsealed openings can encourage a reintroduction that is a matter for the owner’s maintenance. Our technicians will tell you what corrective measures to take.
How much does it cost to decontaminate squirrels?
The price is based on an assessment, based on the extent of the contamination, the volume of insulation to be removed and access to the attic. An inspection in Longueuil or elsewhere in Montérégie allows for an accurate estimate. It is a paid service carried out by RBQ certified technicians.