Job Overview
Location: Kitchener, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-storey house
Problem: Wildlife activity observed beneath a rear concrete deck, consistent with skunk behaviour
Service: Skunk removal and exclusion
Visits: Three
Summary
Our team was called to address suspected skunk activity beneath a concrete deck at a residential property in Kitchener. The work involved confirming the access point, installing a humane one-way door, trenching and exclusion with galvanized steel mesh, and completing a final inspection after activity had ceased.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached two-storey home with a poured concrete deck at the rear. Soil beds and vegetation bordered the deck perimeter, creating concealed gaps along the foundation edge.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported repeated wildlife activity under the deck, including ground disturbance near the foundation. They were concerned about potential denning and ongoing access beneath the structure.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial exterior inspection, our technician identified disturbed soil and an opening where the deck met the foundation wall on one side of the structure. The location and size of the opening were consistent with skunk access under concrete decks. No interior entry points were observed.
Cause Analysis
Concrete decks often leave small gaps along the foundation edge where soil settles over time. These sheltered areas provide skunks with protection from weather and predators. Dense landscaping near the deck further reduced visibility, making the area suitable for denning.
Treatment / Removal
A humane, non-lethal approach was used. A one-way door designed for skunks was installed at the identified access point to allow the animal to exit naturally while preventing re-entry. No trapping or harmful methods were used.
Exclusion & Repairs
Following customer approval, trenching was completed along approximately 29 feet of the exposed deck edge. A galvanized steel mesh barrier was installed vertically and secured to the concrete, extending below grade to block future access. The mesh was contoured to the foundation and deck structure to maintain long-term effectiveness.
Outcome & Confirmation
On the final visit, the homeowner reported no further wildlife activity. The one-way door was removed, the opening was sealed, and the exclusion work was inspected. No signs of renewed digging or access were observed after completion.
Technician Notes
Andrew completed the inspection, installation, and final confirmation over three visits. Photos taken during the work show soil disturbance at the deck edge, trenching along the foundation, galvanized mesh secured in place, and the one-way door installed and later removed after activity stopped.
This work was completed by our Kitchener Wildlife control team. For Wildlife control inquiries in Kitchener, contact 226-778-3098.