If you're hearing scratching, thumping or scampering above your ceiling at night, there’s a good chance you have a possum in your roof. As cities and suburbs expand, possums—especially the Common Brushtail Possum—are increasingly seeking shelter in roof spaces.

While their visits might seem noisy or inconvenient, it’s important to remember that these curious marsupials are protected native animals. There are safe, humane and legal ways to help a possum move on without causing it harm.

Why Are Possums in My Roof?

Possums are resourceful and highly adaptable. When trees are cleared or nesting hollows are lost, they often look for the next best thing—your roof cavity. Roofs offer a warm, dry and safe space to shelter during the day.

Unfortunately, sharing your home with a possum can lead to problems like:

• Night-time noise

• Chewed electrical wires

• Strong odours from droppings

• Damage to insulation

Possum in Roof Help: What You Can Do

If you suspect a possum has taken up residence in your roof, here’s how to help:

1. Observe Before Acting

Watch and listen to work out the possum’s entry point and exit routine. Possums are usually active at night, leaving the roof at dusk and returning at dawn.

2. Create a Path Out

Once you’re sure the possum is out, block the access point securely using timber or metal sheeting. Be sure no animals are still inside before sealing. You can also install a one-way door to let them out safely while preventing re-entry.

3. Offer a New Home Nearby

Rather than displacing the possum entirely, offer it an alternative shelter by installing a possum box in a nearby tree. Position the box at least 4 metres high and out of reach of cats or dogs. This provides a safe option for the possum to move into.

4. Prevent Future Visits

• Trim overhanging branches close to your roof

• Avoid leaving pet food or uncovered rubbish outside

• Inspect your roof regularly for new gaps or entry points

Possums Are Protected

Possums are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. It is illegal to harm, trap or relocate them without a licence. Relocating a possum outside its territory usually results in injury, stress or death. If you need assistance, contact a licensed wildlife carer.

Injured, Orphaned or Distressed Possum?

If you find a possum that is injured, wet, shivering or separated from its mother, please call WIRES immediately on 1300 094 737, or report the rescue online at wires.org.au/rescue. Our trained volunteers are ready to help.

A Little Brushtail With a Big Story

One young brushtail possum rescued by WIRES was found after being chased from a roof cavity. Disoriented and alone, he had tried to shelter in another roof space, but was rejected by the dominant male already living there.

Thankfully, a kind resident called WIRES. The young possum was taken into care, given shelter, and monitored closely. After weeks of recovery, he was successfully released into safe bushland, with a nearby possum box already waiting for him.