Dealing with a possum in your roof can be stressful, but choosing the right removal service doesn’t have to be. With so many options available, it’s important to know what to look for to ensure the job is done effectively, humanely, and legally. Selecting the wrong provider can lead to ongoing problems, harm to protected wildlife, and even legal trouble.
This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when hiring a possum removal service. From checking their credentials to understanding their methods, you’ll learn how to make an informed decision that protects your property and ensures the safe handling of our native animals.
Why Choosing the Right Service Matters
Not all possum removal services are created equal. Hiring an unqualified or unethical operator poses significant risks. An ineffective removal might mean the possum returns within days, or worse, becomes trapped inside your walls or roof cavity. This can lead to property damage, unpleasant odours, and a more complex and costly problem to fix.
Furthermore, since possums are protected wildlife in Australia, any interference must comply with strict government regulations. An improper removal could result in harm to the animal and legal penalties for both the service provider and you. A professional, reputable service understands these responsibilities and prioritises a humane, lasting solution.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Service
To find a reliable possum removal company, focus on a few key areas. This checklist will help you evaluate potential providers and select one you can trust.
Experience and Expertise
Look for a company with a proven track record in possum removal. An experienced technician understands possum behaviour, knows how to identify all potential entry points, and can predict how a possum will react in certain situations.
They can quickly distinguish between possum activity and other pests, such as rats or birds, ensuring the correct solution is applied. Ask how long they have been in business and if they specialise in native wildlife management.
Legal Compliance and Licensing
This is a non-negotiable factor. A legitimate possum removal service must be fully licensed and insured. They must also operate in strict compliance with the wildlife protection laws in your state or territory. These laws dictate that possums must be released on the same property within a short distance of the capture site.
A company that claims it will relocate the possum far away is operating illegally and unethically. Always ask for proof of their licenses and certifications.
Humane Practices
A professional service will always prioritise the welfare of the animal. Their primary method should involve identifying and sealing entry points while using a one-way door system. This allows the possum to leave your roof for its nightly forage but prevents it from getting back inside.
This approach is far more effective and humane than trapping. Ask direct questions about their removal methods to ensure they are not using harmful traps or poisons.
Cost and Transparency
While cost is an important factor, the cheapest quote is not always the best option. A professional service should provide a clear, detailed quote that outlines all costs involved, including inspection fees, removal work, and any necessary repairs or proofing.
Be wary of companies that are not transparent about their pricing or add unexpected fees later. A good provider will explain what their service includes and offer a warranty on their work.
How to Prepare for a Possum Removal Service
To make the removal process as smooth as possible, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Take note of where and when you hear noises.
- Look for any obvious signs of entry points on your roof or eaves.
- Clear any access areas the technician may need, such as manholes.
- Be ready to ask questions about their process and what to expect.
Find a Lasting and Humane Solution
Choosing the right possum removal service is the most important step toward resolving your possum problem safely and permanently. By prioritising experience, legal compliance, and humane practices, you can find a provider who will get the job done right.
Don’t leave your possum problem to chance. Contact our expert team today at Possum Busters for safe, humane, and effective possum removal services tailored to your needs.