Birds nesting in soffits and roof - how serious is this and who should I call to help?
Anonymous user 12/05/2026 - 9:50 AM
We've got birds nesting in our soffits, and it sounds like they might be getting into other parts of the roof. We heard a story from a neighbour who had a similar problem, and it turns out the birds removed a bunch of the roofing felt, leaving them with a leaky roof and a big repair bill. I’m not sure how true all of that is, but here's what we're facing: our soffits have missing plugs, and we’re definitely not keen on just blocking them out and letting them die inside.
I've got a few questions:
- How risky is it really to have birds in the soffits? I know they obviously have to go, but could they actually cause some serious, expensive damage? Has anyone seen major roof issues caused by birds before?
- If there's a risk of damage, how should we figure out the extent of it and who should we call for help? Are we looking at a costly job where large sections of roof or soffits need to come off, or is it more straightforward than that? I'm thinking maybe using cameras on poles, getting into the attic, etc. Should we call in a roofer, pest control, or even an ecologist?
- Lastly, does anyone have tips on inexpensive and easy methods to get them out? I've read about ultrasound devices and using distress calls.
I’m aware of the legal aspects concerning bird disturbance, plus I really don't want to harm them. Any advice or guidance would be really appreciated!
In newer home designs, the soffit to attic connection is sealed with cardboard or boards. In older homes, it may be open, allowing birds to easily enter the attic, causing no harm other than dirt. However, you can cautiously enter the attic and check the condition with a flashlight. Just be careful not to damage the drywall. just move on the terraces.
Apart from the dirtiness of the birds in the soffit, I don't think they will cause any damage to the house.
Answered30 September 2025
0
Anonymous user
Well to truthfull.wildlife does belong in the home.
Any location that is not sealed with flashing or form structuring material is where critters will find there access.
As many home owners are not familiar with how these areas should be closed off contact your local building or Roofing supplier to guide you in the correct direction.
Start with humane wildlife removal specialists (not standard pest control, as they focus on exclusion). Look for companies certified in humane practices that comply with MBCA—many in Ontario (e.g., around Toronto/GTA or your area) offer bird exclusion for soffits/vents. They can:
Identify species legally.
Use one-way exclusion devices (birds exit but can't re-enter) if fledglings are present.
Install mesh/hardware cloth over openings.
Clean/sanitize afterward.
Costs: Often $300–$1,000+ depending on access and extent.
If structural damage suspected: Follow up with a licensed roofer experienced in wildlife-related repairs (they can inspect felt, sheathing, etc., without full tear-off if minor).
Pest control if secondary issues (mites from nests).
Avoid ecologists unless it's a protected native species (rare for soffits).
Search locally for "humane bird removal Ontario" or "wildlife control soffit birds [your city]"—many guarantee work and follow laws.
For that situation, the best first call is usually:
1. A wildlife removal / pest control company
2. Then a roofer or soffit contractor if damage is found
Birds in soffits can cause:
* Torn insulation or roofing felt
* Blocked vents
* Water/moisture problems
* Rot from droppings and nesting material
Usually they do not destroy an entire roof, but they absolutely can create expensive localized damage if they stay there a long time.
The normal process is:
* Inspect soffits and attic
* Remove birds legally/humanely
* Install one-way exits or screens
* Repair openings/vents/soffits so they cannot return
A roofer alone often won’t remove active nests because of wildlife laws and nesting seasons.
The “easy fix” is rarely ultrasonic devices — those often don’t work well long term. Physical exclusion (mesh/screens/repairing missing plugs) works much better.
If they’re already deep in the attic or multiple roof sections, inspection cameras or attic checks can help determine damage before opening everything up.
