The Dangers Of Leaving Possums In Your Walls: Structural Damage And Health Risks

Leaving possums in your walls can lead to both structural damage and health risks. Possums are known to be one of the most common pests that invade homes, especially in urban areas, and they can cause serious damage to your property. Possums are known for their adorable faces and fluffy tails. They are often considered harmless creatures. However, when they find their way into your walls, they can cause significant damage to your home’s structure and pose health risks to your family. In this blog, we’ll discuss the dangers of leaving possums in your walls, including the structural damage they can cause and the health risks they pose.

How Possums Can Harm You And Your Property Living In Walls

Possums can cause significant damage to your home’s structure when left unchecked in your walls. Their natural behaviour of digging and scratching can cause extensive damage to insulation, electrical wires, and pipes. They can also chew through wood and drywall, causing further damage. If left unaddressed, these issues can become expensive to repair and, in some cases, even compromise the safety of your home. 

Structure Damage

Possums can also cause damage to the structural integrity of your home. As they move around in your walls, they can create small holes and cracks, which can weaken your home’s structure over time. Additionally, if left unchecked, they can cause significant damage to wooden beams and other structural elements. This type of damage can be costly to repair and can even compromise the safety of your home.

Insulation Damage

One of the most common damages possums in your walls can cause is insulation damage. Possums will often make their way into your walls to nest and create a cozy home for themselves. In doing so, they can damage and remove insulation material, reducing your home’s energy efficiency and increasing your energy bills.

Electrical Damage

Possums are known to chew through electrical wires, which can cause a short circuit or even a fire. This type of damage can be particularly hazardous as it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. If you suspect that possums have chewed through your electrical wires, it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent a potential fire hazard.

Pipes Damage

Possums can also damage your home’s plumbing by chewing through pipes. This type of damage can cause leaks and water damage, leading to mould growth and other health hazards. If you suspect possums have damaged your pipes, it’s essential to have a plumber inspect your home to identify any leaks or damage.

Health Risks

Possums can also pose significant health risks to you and your family. As they move around in your walls, they can create dust and debris, which can cause allergies and respiratory problems. Additionally, possums are carriers of fleas, ticks, and other parasites, which can spread diseases to humans and pets.

Allergies And Respiratory Problems

When possums move around in your walls, they can create dust and debris that can circulate throughout your home’s air. This can cause allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. If you or someone in your family has been experiencing breathing difficulties or other allergy symptoms, it’s essential to investigate the issue and identify any potential possum infestations.

Parasites And Diseases

Possums can carry fleas, ticks, and other parasites that can spread diseases to humans and pets. Some of the diseases that possums can carry include leptospirosis, salmonella, and tuberculosis. If you suspect that possums have made their way into your walls, it’s essential to contact a possum removal professional to identify and remove the infestation.

Conclusion

Possums may be cute and cuddly, but they can cause significant damage to your home and pose health risks to your family if left unchecked in your walls. If you suspect that possums have made their way into your walls, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. Contact a pest control professional to identify and remove possums safely.