Job Overview
Location: Newmarket, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-storey brick home with attached garage and rear deck
Problem: Raccoon activity and suspected denning under the back deck during early baby season
Service: Raccoon removal and deck exclusion
Visits: Two visits
Summary
Our team responded to reports of repeated raccoon activity at a residential property in Newmarket. Inspection confirmed a raccoon den established beneath the rear deck, with young present. Humane removal was completed, followed by targeted exclusion to prevent re-entry. A final visit confirmed the area was secure and inactive.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached brick home with a raised wooden deck at the rear. The deck was constructed over a combination of soil and concrete, limiting access beneath the structure. The deck perimeter included a single open section along the side, which provided shelter and concealment suitable for denning wildlife.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported frequent raccoon sightings around the back of the house and suspected that an animal had taken up residence beneath the deck. Given the timing in April, there was concern that young raccoons might be present.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial exterior inspection, our technician Ardian identified an active entry point along the side of the raised deck. Removal of select deck boards was required to safely access the area beneath. Three juvenile raccoons were located in a den space directly over gravel and adjacent to concrete, confirming an active nursery site.
Photos taken during the inspection show:
- Juvenile raccoons clustered beneath the deck structure
- The open side section of the deck used as the access point
- Limited clearance caused by concrete directly below the deck
- Installation areas for galvanized steel mesh along the deck perimeter
Cause Analysis
Raccoons commonly select deck cavities for denning due to overhead protection and limited disturbance. The raised deck design, combined with an unsealed side opening over concrete, created a protected access point that could not be naturally closed off by soil. Seasonal behavior during early spring further increased the likelihood of denning with young present.
Treatment / Removal
Because trenching was not possible due to the concrete base, a non-lethal, hands-on removal approach was required. Deck boards were temporarily removed to access the den. The juvenile raccoons were carefully removed and placed according to humane wildlife handling practices. A one-way door was installed at the identified entry point to allow the adult raccoon to exit without re-entering.
Exclusion & Repairs
Following removal, approximately five feet of galvanized steel mesh was installed along the side of the deck. The mesh was securely fastened to the deck structure and mechanically anchored into the concrete to eliminate the access point. This method ensured a continuous barrier despite the hard surface below.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the follow-up visit, the homeowner reported no further raccoon activity. The one-way door was removed, the opening was permanently sealed, and the full exclusion area was inspected. No signs of wildlife presence were observed, and the deck perimeter remained secure.
Technician Notes
All work was completed over two visits with attention to seasonal conditions and limited access constraints. The exclusion was designed specifically to address the concrete-only access point beneath the deck. Ardian confirmed the site remained inactive at completion.
This service was completed by our Newmarket wildlife team. For wildlife removal inquiries in Newmarket, contact 905-581-3776.