Rodents and raccoons can be a huge problem for homeowners. These small animals find your attics and crawl spaces inviting places to keep warm from the winter weather and to have their babies. These animals can cause terrible damage to your insulation, roofing, and most importantly wiring. Make sure your homeowners insurance covers you for these problems.
There are several things you can do to avoid this pesky problem. Make sure tree branches are cut away from your home. Keep garbage cans covered. Make sure small entrances are filled with some type of foam or steel wool. If you think you have an issue, call an exterminator. Like anything else, you can try to take care of it yourself and do the best job you can, or you can call a professional. I am sure that they have dealt with situations like yours so many times that they will have creative, permanent solutions.