When homeowners think about attic problems, they may picture leaks, insulation issues, or poor ventilation. But one of the most overlooked hazards hiding overhead is rodent activity—and more specifically, the damage it leaves behind.
During a recent LunsPro home inspection, certified inspector Wes O. uncovered something small but significant: chew marks on attic wiring, a clear sign of rodent presence. While these bite marks may seem like a minor inconvenience, they actually pose a serious threat to the safety and integrity of the entire home.
Why Rodents Chew Wiring
Rodents have incisors that never stop growing, and chewing is how they keep those teeth from getting too long. Unfortunately, they'll gnaw on just about anything—including plastic insulation around electrical wires.
Wiring in the attic is especially vulnerable due to the quiet, undisturbed environment. Mice, rats, and squirrels can enter through small gaps in the eaves or roofline and quickly make themselves at home.
The Risks of Chewed Wiring
Once rodents begin chewing, the damage escalates quickly:
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Electrical Fire Hazard: Exposed wires can spark and ignite surrounding insulation or wood.
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Circuit Damage: Compromised wires may short out or fail, impacting the home's electrical system.
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Unexpected Outages: Damaged connections can cause flickering lights, loss of power, or malfunctioning outlets.
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Code Violations: Homes with this kind of wiring damage may not pass inspection during a sale or refinancing process.
How Home Inspections Can Catch These Issues Early
Rodent activity is often missed by homeowners because attics are rarely visited. However, professional home inspectors like those at LunsPro are trained to spot subtle but critical signs:
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Chew marks on wires or wood framing
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Nesting materials in insulation
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Droppings or greasy trails along beams
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Entry points near vents or soffits
By identifying these red flags early, inspectors help homeowners avoid dangerous outcomes and expensive electrical repairs.
What Should Homeowners Do If Chewed Wiring Is Found?
If rodent-damaged wiring is discovered during an inspection, here are the recommended steps:
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Hire an Electrician
Any exposed or damaged wiring must be repaired or replaced immediately to prevent potential fires. -
Schedule Pest Control
Rodents won't stop on their own. Professional pest control ensures the intruders are removed and kept from returning. -
Seal Entry Points
Close gaps and reinforce attic barriers to prevent future infestations. -
Monitor and Maintain
Regular attic inspections—especially in older homes—can help catch new activity before it escalates.
Preventing Rodent Access in the First Place
Proactive maintenance is key to keeping rodents out of the attic. Homeowners should:
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Install mesh screens over vents
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Trim trees or bushes touching the roofline
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Keep pet food sealed and out of attic spaces
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Regularly check for signs of infestation
The Importance of a Full Home Inspection
Rodent damage, like what Wes O. found, may not be visible from the living areas of the home—but it can have serious consequences. That's why it's essential to have a thorough, top-to-bottom home inspection before buying, selling, or settling into a new property.
LunsPro Inspection Group proudly serves the Atlanta, Alpharetta, Athens, and beyond, offering:
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Residential and Commercial Inspections
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Attic, Roof, and Crawlspace Evaluations
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Drone Inspections
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Mold and Air Quality Testing
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Septic and Sewer Scope Inspections
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Radon Testing and More
Don't Wait for the Lights to Flicker—Act Now
Small signs like rodent chew marks may seem insignificant, but they often signal larger, hidden problems. Trust the experts at LunsPro Inspection Group to uncover issues before they become disasters.