Chipmunks Burrowing at the Foundation: Fire and Flea Risks

Real Dangers

• Chewed wiring – rodents gnaw insulation; homeowner insurance typically excludes rodent-caused fire damage.
• Fleas and parasites – chipmunks host fleas that can infest pets and homes.

Action Steps

1. Seal entry points with ¼-inch hardware cloth or concrete.
2. Live-trap and relocate (check state legality; translocation is often illegal/inhumane).
3. Remove attractants: bird seed, pet food, wood piles near foundation.

Don’t Gamble

The cost of a house fire far exceeds prevention effort. Treat any rodent at the foundation as a serious hazard.