Birds, squirrels, and raccoons love an uncapped chimney, and in the Puget Sound region they nest in them year-round. A chimney animal removal safely clears the intruder and nesting debris, then seals the opening so it doesn't happen again. This guide covers real 2026 pricing, the signs of a chimney animal, and how to prevent repeats. Left alone, a nest blocks draft, pushes smoke indoors, and becomes a serious fire hazard across Seattle, Tacoma, and Everett homes.
What animal removal costs in Seattle
Animal or nest removal alone runs $299–$500, depending on what's inside, how deep it is, and how much nesting debris has to come out. If you add an exclusion cap to seal the top and keep animals out for good, the total runs $500–$900 including the cap and installation. We strongly recommend the cap, since an open flue in wooded King, Pierce, and Snohomish County neighborhoods invites the next animal within weeks. You'll get a free written quote before work starts, a free second opinion, and a price-match plus 10–25%.
Signs an animal is in your chimney
You may have an uninvited guest if you notice:
- Scratching, rustling, or chirping sounds from the flue.
- A foul smell from droppings or a dead animal.
- Debris like twigs, leaves, or feathers dropping into the firebox.
- Poor draft or smoke back-up from a blocked flue.
Chimney swifts and some birds are protected during nesting season, so removal must be done carefully and legally. We handle it the right way and clear the flue completely.
Why it's common in the Puget Sound area
The Seattle region's mild, wet climate and heavy tree cover make chimneys prime shelter. Squirrels and raccoons seek warm, dry cavities before the rainy season, and birds nest inside warm flues in spring. Many older Tacoma and Everett homes have missing or damaged caps, leaving the flue wide open. Once inside, animals pack nesting material that blocks the draft, traps moisture, and creates a genuine fire hazard when you light the first fire of the season. A capped chimney is the simplest, most reliable way to keep them out.
How to get an honest quote
Ask whether the quote includes both removal and a cap to prevent repeats, since removal alone often means the same problem next season. A fair company explains what's inside and what it'll take to seal the flue. We provide a free written quote, a free second opinion on any competitor bid, and a price-match plus 10–25% guarantee. Call 206-453-2045 and know your cost upfront.
What Chimney Animal Removal Costs in Seattle (2026)
Real 2026 ranges for the Seattle–Tacoma–Everett area, with a free written quote before any work begins.
| Animal / nest removal | $299–$500 |
| Removal + exclusion cap | $500–$900 |
Get a free quote
See our full chimney service pricing, or learn more about Chimney Animal Removal. You get a free written quote before any work begins — call 206-453-2045 or request your free quote online.