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Bats slip through gaps as small as 1/4 inch, so your best defense is a thorough seal-up and a few simple habit tweaks. Start by caulking or screening every crack around chimneys, eaves, and vents. Swap dim porch bulbs for brighter LEDs or motion lights (bats dislike the glare), and consider an ultrasonic deterrent if they keep circling. 

Finally, remove easy snacks—cover standing water and skip the nighttime bird-feeder refills. These steps go a long way toward keeping your home bat-free.

Standard homeowners’ insurance rarely pays for bat removal because insurers view it as routine maintenance. You might get partial help for guano cleanup or related repairs, but that varies by policy. Review your insurance policy carefully and contact your provider for a definitive explanation. Securing all entry points remains the homeowner’s responsibility to prevent future incursions.

The sweet spot for bat exclusion is late summer through spring. That window keeps you inside most state rules and protects baby bats that haven’t learned to fly yet. Removal activities are conducted when bats are less active, with some states permitting work from August through May and others ceasing removal in March. Consult a qualified bat removal specialist to confirm the valid timeframe for your area.

Spotting a dead bat can be unsettling, but a calm, careful approach keeps everyone safe. First, call your state wildlife office to report the find and ask about local rules. Snap a quick photo from a distance, then—wearing disposable gloves—place the bat in a sealed plastic bag for disposal as directed. 

Wipe down nearby surfaces with disinfectant, wash your hands thoroughly, and schedule a pest-control pro to make sure no live bats (or harmful guano) remain hidden in the house.