Humane Society of the United States recommends the following tips to help safely keep raccoons at bay.

Restrict access to food sources

Food sources are among the biggest draws for raccoons, especially garbage bins stored outside. Keep trash cans and compost bins securely fastened. Raccoon repellents can be applied to prevent them from gnawing through the lids. Other food sources to be mindful of are garden beds, fruit trees, pet food and bird feeders.

Install motion-activated lights

Install motion-activated floodlights near garden beds or fruit trees that are difficult to block off. These lights are typically effective enough to help keep critters away.

Use sprinklers

Motion-activated water sprinklers can spray critters attempting to sneak into the yard. They don't cause harm and are effective at discouraging raccoons from coming back.

Patch up your place

Raccoons tend to find their way in through easy and obvious points of entry, according to HSUS. Check the house for any noticeable holes or gaps that they might be able to rip through. Secure chimneys with steel caps and consider wire mesh screens for vents.

HSUS recommends calling on a humane wildlife professional to help in certain situations, such as if raccoons have set up a den in the home or a raccoon is trapped or injured. A professional can help remove them without causing harm to the animals or the home.

The Insurance Information Institute also advises policyholders call their insurance company immediately about any structural damage caused by critters, like raccoons, or any other covered hazard. An adjuster can evaluate damage and help you with next steps to getting your home repaired.