What Critter Control is and who runs it

Critter Control is a private wildlife removal company with locations across the United States. It is not a government program — you pay out of pocket for their services, though some homeowners insurance policies cover wildlife damage. The company sends a technician to your home to trap, remove, or exclude animals, then seals entry points to prevent return.

Critter Control operates as a franchise system, meaning each location is independently owned but follows the company's standards. This matters because pricing, response time, and service quality can vary by region. You contact your local Critter Control office directly; there is no central process or approval process.

The company handles common household wildlife: raccoons, squirrels, bats, opossums, skunks, groundhogs, and birds. They also offer exclusion work (sealing holes and gaps), attic cleanup, and damage repair. Some locations handle larger animals like deer or coyotes, depending on local regulations and franchise choice.

Key Takeaways

  • Critter Control is a private company you hire and pay directly — it is not a government benefit or subsidy program.
  • Costs vary widely by location, animal type, and the extent of trapping and exclusion work needed; get a written estimate before committing.
  • Some homeowners insurance policies cover wildlife damage or removal, so check your policy before paying the full cost yourself.
  • Local animal control or wildlife agencies often offer lower-cost or free removal for certain animals; call them first to compare options.
  • Critter Control uses live trapping and relocation for most animals, though methods and legality vary by state and species.

How the removal process works

When you call Critter Control, a representative schedules an inspection. A technician visits your home, identifies the animal, locates entry points, and assesses the damage. They then provide a written estimate that breaks down the cost of trapping, removal, exclusion, and any cleanup or repairs.

If you approve, the technician returns to set traps or one-way doors (devices that let animals leave but not re-enter). They check traps regularly — usually daily or every other day — and remove trapped animals. In most states, Critter Control relocates animals to a remote location rather than euthanizing them, though this varies by state law and animal type.

After removal, the technician seals entry points with steel mesh, caulk, or hardware cloth. This exclusion step is critical: without it, new animals will enter the same holes. The company may also recommend attic cleanup to remove droppings, nesting material, or contaminated insulation, which is a separate charge.

Pricing and what affects the cost

Critter Control does not publish standard prices online. Cost depends on the animal type, the number of entry points, how long trapping takes, and whether exclusion or cleanup is needed. A single raccoon removal might cost $300 to $600 in one region and $800 to $1,200 in another.

The estimate typically includes an inspection fee (sometimes waived if you proceed with service), trapping and removal, and one-way door installation. Exclusion work — sealing all entry points — is often quoted separately and can add $500 to $2,000 or more depending on the size of your home and the number of gaps. Attic cleanup and insulation replacement are additional line items.

Call three to five local Critter Control franchises and ask for written estimates. Compare what each one includes: some bundle exclusion into the removal price, others charge separately. Ask whether the estimate covers a warranty (many offer 12 months of free re-trapping if the animal returns).

Insurance and lower-cost alternatives

Before paying Critter Control's full price, check your homeowners insurance policy. Some policies cover wildlife damage (like a raccoon tearing up your roof) but not the removal itself. Others cover removal as part of a broader damage claim. Call your insurance agent and describe the problem; they can tell you whether coverage applies and what your deductible is.

Your city or county animal control office often removes wildlife for free or at a much lower cost than Critter Control. Call them first. They handle raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and skunks in most areas. Response time is slower than a private company, and they may euthanize rather than relocate, but the cost difference is significant.

Some states and counties run wildlife removal programs specifically for low-income households. Search "[your county] wildlife removal information" or call your local extension office to ask. Private wildlife removal companies sometimes offer payment plans or discounts for seniors or disabled residents — ask when you call for an estimate.

What to do before calling Critter Control

Identify the animal if you can. Listen for sounds (scratching, scurrying, chirping), look for droppings or damage, and note when you hear activity (raccoons are nocturnal; squirrels are active during the day). This information helps the technician prepare and quote accurately.

Seal obvious entry points yourself if they are small and safe to reach — use steel mesh or hardware cloth, not plastic or wood. Do not trap the animal yourself unless you are trained; improper trapping can injure you or the animal, and relocation may be illegal in your state without a permit.

Document the damage with photos. If you plan to file an insurance claim, photos and a written description of when the problem started help support your case. Keep any estimates or invoices from Critter Control for your records and for the insurance company.

State and local regulations that affect service

Wildlife removal laws vary significantly by state. Some states require a permit to trap and relocate animals; others prohibit relocation altogether. A few states allow euthanasia only in certain circumstances. Critter Control knows the rules in your area, but it is worth asking what method they will use and why.

Certain animals are protected by law in some states. Bats, for example, are protected in many places and cannot be killed; they must be excluded (one-way doors) rather than trapped. Migratory birds are federally protected and cannot be trapped or killed. Critter Control will follow these rules, but confirm they understand your state's specific restrictions before signing a contract.

If you live in a city or suburb, local ordinances may restrict where animals can be relocated. Some counties require relocation to be within a certain distance; others prohibit it entirely. Ask Critter Control where they relocate animals and whether your county allows it.

Questions to ask before hiring

Ask whether the estimate includes a warranty. Most reputable companies offer 12 months of free re-trapping if the same animal or a new one enters through the sealed areas. Ask what happens if the animal returns after exclusion is complete — do they come back at no charge, or do you pay again?

Ask how long trapping typically takes for your animal type. Raccoons often take one to three weeks; squirrels may take longer. Ask whether they will check traps daily and how they will contact you with updates. Ask what they do with trapped animals — relocation, euthanasia, or transfer to a wildlife rehabilitator.

Ask for references from recent customers in your area. Ask whether they are insured and bonded (this protects you if they damage your home or get injured on your property). Ask whether the price is fixed or whether additional charges may appear after work begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trap the animal myself instead of hiring Critter Control?

You can, but it carries risks. Improper trapping can injure you or the animal. Many states require a permit to trap and relocate wildlife, and some prohibit relocation entirely. If you do trap an animal, check your state's wildlife agency website for legal requirements and safe handling methods before you start.

What if I cannot afford Critter Control's price?

Call your local animal control office first — they often remove wildlife for free or a small fee. Ask whether your homeowners insurance covers the removal. Search for wildlife removal information programs in your county, which sometimes exist for low-income residents. Some private companies offer payment plans; ask when you call for an estimate.

Will Critter Control come back if the animal returns?

Most franchises offer a warranty period (usually 12 months) during which they will re-trap at no charge if the same animal or a new one enters through sealed areas. Read the warranty terms in your contract — some exclude certain entry points or situations. Ask what happens after the warranty expires.

Is it legal to relocate wildlife in my state?

It depends on your state and the animal type. Some states prohibit relocation; others require a permit. Bats and migratory birds are protected federally and cannot be killed or relocated without a permit. Ask Critter Control what method they use in your area and why. Call your state wildlife agency if you want to confirm the rules yourself.

How long does the whole process take?

An inspection takes one to two hours. Trapping typically takes one to four weeks depending on the animal and how many are present. Exclusion work can be done in one to three days. Attic cleanup may take another day or two. Total time from first call to final exclusion is usually one to two months.