How can I prevent squirrels from getting into my attic?
– Angie’s List member Hillary Abbey

Lou Ocasio, owner of highly rated Critter Detectives in Lombard, Ill., says squirrels get into your eaves and attic because they're searching for a safe place to raise their young, and the best way to deal with them is to prevent them from getting inside in the first place.

"Make sure all the trees are trimmed away from the house," he says. "That's one of the easiest ways they get in. Properly repair all wood areas to prevent them from chewing through and getting in."

Brandon Kulosa, owner of highly rated Animal Trackers Wildlife in Hoffman Estates, Ill., advises taking a close look at your gutters and roof. "Houses with ice dams or backed-up gutters tend to have the most animal problems, because water damage weakens the wood and makes it easier for squirrels to chew through," he says.

He also suggests keeping an eye out for pre-existing problems, such as chimneys or vents that haven't been covered or screened off.

Once they've made it into the house, prevention is important. "If they've already invaded, we'll put traps around the entry points and relocate them," Ocasio says. "It's not a good idea to just chase them out and seal up the hole. They think of it as their own house, so they'll keep trying to get back in unless you relocate them."

The cost of removal, prevention and relocation varies, depending on the size of the infestation, number of entry points and the amount of damage, but Ocasio says it averages about $300.

Visit Angie’s List for more information on highly rated pest control companies in the Chicago area.