Animal & Wildlife Chimney Removal in Hermitage, Nashville (ZIP 37076)
Safe, humane removal of squirrels, raccoons, and birds from your chimney, plus cleanup and cap installation to keep them out.
Newer construction throughout Hermitage usually comes with a factory cap already installed, but we still see plenty of calls from homes where that original cap has failed or gone missing, letting wildlife move in.
An open or poorly capped flue looks like a ready-made den to squirrels, raccoons, and birds — and once an animal moves in, removing it safely (for you and the animal) takes the right approach, not just brushing it out. We handle safe removal, full debris and nest cleanup, and cap installation so it doesn't happen again.
What's Included
- Safe assessment of the animal and nesting situation before any action
- Humane removal methods appropriate to the species involved
- Full removal of nesting material, droppings, and debris
- Sanitization of the firebox and smoke chamber after removal
- Cap and damper installation to prevent repeat entry
Warning Signs in Hermitage Homes
- Scratching, chirping, or movement sounds from inside the chimney
- A strong odor coming from the fireplace or flue
- Visible nesting material at the top of the flue or in the firebox
- A missing or damaged cap with recent animal activity nearby
About the Hermitage Area
Named for Andrew Jackson's historic estate, Hermitage is a family-oriented eastern suburb that grew rapidly from the 1980s through the 2000s near Percy Priest Lake and Central Pike. Two-story homes with builder-installed gas fireplaces dominate the newer subdivisions, while older sections closer to Old Hickory Boulevard still have traditional wood-burning masonry chimneys. Being close to the lake means higher humidity and more moisture exposure for exterior masonry, so we pay close attention to flashing and crown condition on Hermitage inspections. Dryer vent cleanings are also a frequent call here, since many of the larger two-story floor plans route ducting through long interior runs before reaching an exterior wall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What animals commonly get into Nashville chimneys?
Squirrels, raccoons, and birds (especially chimney swifts) are the most common, particularly in neighborhoods with mature tree canopy.
Is it safe to just light a fire to scare an animal out?
No — this can seriously injure or kill the animal, create a dangerous panic response, and risks igniting nesting material. Safe removal should always come first.
Will you also install a cap so this doesn't happen again?
Yes — removal without capping the flue just invites the next animal in, so we always recommend pairing removal with a properly fitted cap.