This week, I found myself dealing with something I never expected—a squirrel stuck in our gutter.

What started as a simple situation turned into taking apart part of what had just been sealed up, trying to figure out how to help the squirrel… and realizing how easily something small can turn into a much bigger issue around a home.

And it made me think of a conversation I had with a client not long ago.

At one point, they had solar panels installed, and a squirrel found its way underneath them. It built a nest, created damage to the roof, and over time that turned into a hole.

What surprised them most wasn't just the damage—it was that their insurance would not cover the repair.

The Part Most Homeowners Don't Think About

When we think about home maintenance, we usually think about the obvious things:

• Roof age

• HVAC systems

• Plumbing

We don't usually think about squirrels.

But the truth is, squirrels (and other small animals) can cause real structural damage.

They can:

• Chew through soffits and fascia

• Find their way into attics

• Damage roof decking

• Nest in gutters

• And even get under solar panels where it's warm and protected

And once they're in, they don't just visit—they settle in.

Why This Can Become Expensive Quickly

The challenge isn't just the presence of the animal—it's what happens over time.

Nesting materials, chewing, and moisture exposure can all lead to:

• Roof damage

• Insulation issues

• Ventilation problems

• Entry points for water

And in some cases, as my client experienced, insurance may consider this preventable maintenance rather than a covered event.

That's where something small quietly becomes a much bigger—and more expensive—problem.

A Few Things to Watch For

Most homeowners don't notice this until it's advanced, but there are a few early signs:

• Scratching or movement sounds (especially in the morning or evening)

• Increased squirrel activity around your roofline

• Visible damage to soffits or vents

• Debris or nesting material in gutters

• Unusual wear or gaps near solar panel edges

None of these automatically mean there's a major issue—but they're worth paying attention to.

What I Took Away From All of This

Owning a home comes with things you expect…

…and a few you don't.

This was one of those reminders that not every issue is obvious, and not every problem starts big. Sometimes it's the small, overlooked things that turn into the ones that matter most.

If You Ever Wonder "Is This Something I Should Be Concerned About?"

You don't have to figure it out alone.

Whether it's something you're hearing, noticing, or just unsure about, I'm always happy to help you think it through or connect you with someone who can take a closer look.

No pressure—just a conversation.

Bonnie Wicks, licensed as Bonnie Jean Wicks Bertalot, is an Associate Broker with Carolina One Real Estate serving Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and surrounding Lowcountry communities.