Raccoons on Construction Sites and in Unfinished Buildings
Construction sites and partially completed buildings are high-risk targets for raccoons in the GTA, especially when cold weather hits. While tool storage areas and unused structures or equipment provide shelter, protection, and warmth, construction materials like insulation easily double as den linings. Food scraps and trash add to the attraction of construction sites.
Such infestations pose serious health and safety risks, compromise materials and the structural integrity of building projects, halt inspections, and create legal liability for construction companies, property owners, and developers. Of course, nearby residents will often notice a stark increase in raccoon sightings in their own backyards.
Why Unfinished Construction Sites Attract Raccoons
Construction sites are generally quiet and free of activity during the hours between dusk and dawn - and this is precisely when raccoons are most active. Here are some other considerations:
The Perfect Microclimate
In a newly constructed building, a roof structure is often finished long before the interior walls are sealed. This creates a large, enclosed space that traps residual heat from the concrete foundation and shields the entire area from wind, offering a safe, dry "micro-climate" that’s perfect for winter torpor.
Abundant Nesting Material for Raccoon Nesting Sites
Readily available materials including loose insulation, cardboard packaging, plastic sheeting, and discarded fabric are all utilized by raccoons to create insulated winter dens.
Ease of Access
Unlike finished buildings, construction sites are rarely fully sealed. Raccoons exploit:
- Uncovered elevator and utility shafts.
- Missing windows/doors (covered only by poly sheeting).
- Open joists and wall cavities.
- Unfinished roofing/venting penetrations.
- Unsealed vents, ducts, or chimneys.
- Gaps in temporary fencing or plywood barriers.
- Damaged tarps, scaffolding openings, or roof gaps.
- Open basement or utility access points.
Raccoon Removal in Unfinished Buildings & Construction Sites: The Cascading Costs and Liability Risks
Financial Impact (Project Delays)
The discovery of wildlife can halt all work in that section of the site until animals and biohazards are cleared. This leads to costly project delays, wasted labour time, and potentially missing milestone deadlines.
Compromised Materials & Structure
- Insulation & Drywall
Urine, feces, and trampling/scratching damage destroy insulation (requiring costly replacement) and stain unfinished drywall or wood.
- Chewed Wiring
Raccoons chew on low-voltage wires and exposed electrical conduits, leading to faults that must be traced and rewired by licensed electricians before walls are sealed. If left unchecked, this can lead to fires.
Adjacent Property Risk (The Spread)
Raccoons often use vacant building as a hub. They commute to nearby finished properties (e.g., adjacent homes or neighbouring businesses) for food, increasing conflict within the community and drawing negative attention to the ongoing construction project.
- Migration Effect: Once construction is completed, raccoons may move to nearby homes, offices, or condos.
- Cross-Infestation Risk: Neighbouring buildings face increased intrusion pressure.
- Garbage Attraction: Improper waste management at construction sites draws raccoons into the area, spreading problems to surrounding neighborhoods.
Read more: Raccoons on Construction Sites and in Unfinished Buildings
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