Notice climbing routes without climbing yourself
From the ground, look for vegetation touching or hanging close to the roof and visible damage around soffits. Ask a qualified person to assess tree work or elevated repairs. Never work near overhead power lines or assume that cutting one route removes animals already inside.
Make food less accessible
Keep garbage tightly covered and store feed in sturdy closed containers. Do not leave pet food out overnight. Remove fallen fruit where practical. Food reduction helps, but it is not proof that an established indoor problem has ended.
Inspect doors and utility penetrations
Look for worn garage seals, loose screens and gaps around pipes or cables. Repairs should use suitable durable materials without interfering with vents, drainage or equipment. Ask about the correct repair rather than filling every visible opening with foam.
Coordinate exclusion with removal
Before sealing a route associated with current activity, ask how animals inside will be handled. Treatment and structural work may require different providers. A written plan should identify who does each part and how the result will be checked.
Keep watching for new signs
After any work, record fresh damage or activity rather than relying only on a quiet night. Store the treatment and repair details so a follow-up visit can compare what changed. Repeated signs warrant another assessment, not the unplanned addition of more bait.