Possums are part of Australia’s native wildlife, but when they move into your roof, attic, or wall cavities, they can become a real problem for homeowners. While they may seem harmless at first glance and their presence can lead to property damage, health risks, and sleepless nights. Spotting the signs early is key to managing a possum problem before it gets out of hand. In this blog, we’ll outline the top signs of a possum infestation and how to deal with it effectively. If you suspect you’re dealing with one, professional possum removal in Melbourne is the safest and most humane solution to protect your home and well-being.

  • Noises in the Roof at Night

One of the most common early indicators of a possum infestation is unusual noises coming from the roof or ceiling space, especially at night. Possums are nocturnal, meaning they’re active after dark.

You may hear scratching, thumping, or scurrying sounds as they move around looking for food or nesting spots. These noises are often more pronounced in the early evening or just before sunrise, and may even be loud enough to disturb your sleep.

Ignoring these sounds can lead to more severe issues over time. A possum that feels comfortable in your roof will likely mark its territory and invite others in. If the noise is consistent and always at night it’s a strong sign that a possum may have taken up residence.

  • Strong Odours or Unpleasant Smells

Another common sign of a possum problem is an unusual smell inside the home. Possum urine and faeces can produce a strong, ammonia-like odour that becomes particularly noticeable if the infestation has been on-going.

In addition to urine smells, if a possum becomes trapped or dies inside your roof or wall cavity, the odour from decomposition can quickly become overwhelming.

These smells don’t just create discomfort—they can also pose health risks. This is where professional help for pest control in Melbourne becomes essential. Trained experts can identify and remove the source of the odour and advise on necessary sanitisation to keep your home safe.

  • Visible Droppings and Damage

Possum droppings are often left near entry points or in the roof cavity and can be a clear sign of their presence. Their faeces are typically dark and oval-shaped, and may be mistaken for those of other animals, so it’s important to get a professional inspection to confirm.

Alongside droppings, you may also notice signs of physical damage. Possums often chew on electrical wires, insulation, and timber, which can pose serious fire hazards and result in costly repairs.

If you’re seeing these signs in your home, it might be time to search for pest control near you to assess the situation and provide effective treatment options.

  • Entry Points around the Roof or Eaves

Possums are excellent climbers and can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps. If you see broken roof tiles, gaps under the eaves, or damaged vents, it could be how a possum is gaining entry to your home.

You might also spot greasy rub marks or fur snagged in tight spaces they use regularly. These clues can help confirm their presence and allow professionals to locate their nest and access points.

Blocking off entry points is a key step in long-term residential pest control in Melbourne. But this must only be done once the possums are safely removed, as sealing them in can be both illegal and inhumane.

  • Pet Behaviour Changes

Unusual behaviour in your pets can sometimes indicate the presence of possums. Dogs may bark at the ceiling or near walls, while cats might fixate on certain areas of the home, particularly at night.

Pets have a keen sense of hearing and smell, which allows them to detect wildlife activity even before we do. If your normally calm pet suddenly becomes restless or overly alert, it’s worth investigating further.

Their behaviour may be your first clue that an unwanted visitor is lurking just above the ceiling boards, making it all the more important to contact a professional pest control team.

How to Deal with a Possum Infestation

Dealing with possums requires a combination of patience, expertise, and respect for wildlife laws. In Australia, possums are protected species, and it’s illegal to harm or relocate them without proper authorisation.

The best way to handle an infestation is to contact experienced professionals like Enviro Safe Pest Control. Our team specialises in humane possum removal in Melbourne, ensuring the animal is safely relocated and the access points are secured to prevent re-entry.

We also offer thorough property inspections and provide tailored advice for long-term prevention. Whether its roof repairs, installing possum boxes, or advising on habitat deterrents, we focus on practical, eco-friendly solutions that work.

Time to Take Action

Possums might look cute in the wild, but when they invade your home, they can cause significant stress and damage. From loud noises to unpleasant smells and property damage, the signs of a possum infestation are hard to ignore once you know what to look for.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs around your property, now is the time to act. Contact Enviro Safe Pest Control on 1300 997 272 for a friendly, professional assessment and prompt service. Our team is ready to help you take back control of your home—safely, legally, and with long-term results in mind.