5 min read
June 18, 2026
What you’re reading is a copy of an email newsletter sent by Stephen Simmons, Owner + Primary Mitigator at Umpire. This is an archive, so some links may be missing or expired.
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About that noise in the attic…

Here’s what to know about cleaning up after raccoons, mice, and other unwanted house guests.

You may have heard it coming from the ceiling as you lay in bed awake at night.

Or maybe you’ve heard it in the pantry in the afternoon when the house is quiet.

Those scratching, scampering, nesting sounds.

The ones that mean you’ve got an unwanted guest lurking about. 👀😬

When you notice scratching, scuttling, or thumping noises coming from your attic, crawlspace, or somewhere else it shouldn’t be, getting the uninvited critter out of your home is usually the first order of business. 

But what do you do with the mess left behind once the animal is gone and its point of entry has been sealed up?

Especially when you’re dealing with critters like raccoons, mice, and bats, calling a professional cleanup and decontamination provider is the safest path forward.

But if you’re determined to DIY, here are a few things you should know before you reach for the broom. (Not all situations are created equal!)

When was the last time you had a critter taking refuge in your attic, your basement, or under your porch? 🦝

Reply and tell me about it. I respond to every email!

Take care,

Stephen

Stephen Simmons

Owner | Umpire Mitigation

Call or text us 24/7 at 703-665-1129

PS If you’re ever not sure about the right next step, or if you have a situation on your hands you’d like to talk through, call me anytime – I’m always happy to answer your questions.

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