Yes, removing possums from the roof is strongly recommended.
While not always legally required, possum infestations inside buildings pose serious hygiene risks, fire hazards, and long-term property damage. Over time, possums can create unsafe and unsanitary living conditions for occupants.
Remove possums from the roof
Why Do Some Roofs Still Have Possums?
Many older homes have had possums living in the ceiling for years without intervention.
Common Reasons Possums Are Overlooked
- Pest inspections rarely mention possum evidence
- New owners may inherit roof-dwelling possums without knowing
- Removal is usually triggered by disturbing night-time noises
What Damage Do Possums Cause Inside a Roof?
1. Urine and Faeces Contamination
- Possums urinate and defecate throughout roof cavities
- Urine can soak insulation, leak down walls, and cause odours
- Faeces build-up creates health hazards and promotes bacterial growth
2. Chewed Materials and Structural Damage
- Possums chew through:
- Electrical wiring (risk of fire)
- Timber beams and studs
- Gyprock or plasterboard ceilings
- Holes created are sometimes visible from inside rooms
3. Attracting Rodents and Invasive Pests
- Possums bring food scraps like nuts into roofs
- This attracts rats, who feed on leftovers and cohabit with possums
- Rats worsen the damage and expand infestation zones
How Possums Impact Insulation and Air Quality
Possums destroy insulation in two main ways:
- Tearing batts or foil to build nests
- Contaminating insulation with urine and droppings
Consequences of Untreated Possum Infestation
- Smell becomes embedded in ceiling materials
- Entire insulation layers may require full replacement
- Roof cavities become unsafe for workers and residents
Do Possums Pose a Fire or Water Damage Risk?
Yes, possums can cause both fire and water-related hazards.
Fire Risks from Wiring Damage
- Possums chew electrical cables
- Exposed wiring may short-circuit or ignite
- Several house fires have been linked to possum activity
Plumbing Risks
- Possums disturb or damage water pipes in roof spaces
- Leaks lead to water stains, mould, and ceiling collapse
Legal and Ethical Considerations for Possum Removal
While removal is not mandatory by law, property owners are responsible for ensuring:
- Their home is safe, hygienic, and pest-free
- Wildlife is handled according to local conservation laws
Possum Removal Must Be Handled Legally
- Only licensed professionals may trap and release possum
- Possums must be released within 25 metres of the capture site
- Roofs must be sealed to prevent return and future infestations
Possums Don’t Belong in Roofs – Evict Them Safely and Permanently
Possums cause more than just lost sleep—they damage insulation, chew wires, attract rats, and create hygiene risks. Removing them is not just a convenience—it’s critical property maintenance.
Our licensed team provides legal possum eviction, roof inspections, full proofing, and 12-month warranties on all work.
Call Peter the Possum Man today to protect your roof, your wiring, and your sleep.
