Pests are something you want to detect as early as possible to prevent things like infestations, health hazards, and structural damage to your home.
There are some key signs to spotting pests before they become a real issue. The earlier you cotton on to them being present, the sooner you can get rid of the issue.
Let’s take a look at the signs you might have a pest problem before you actually see the pest itself, and what to do about it.
Five signs of pests
There are some common signs of pests being present, and most of them will be fairly obvious to you.
1. Droppings or urine stains
Any small, pellet-like droppings will typically indicate that you have a rodent present. It’s important that you therefore look out for these around your home, especially in areas that don’t normally get looked at regularly.
Areas like your attic or basement spaces can often show evidence of droppings or urine stains. Anywhere that’s damp or moisture-heavy will also attract pests, as well as areas where food is prepared and left.
2.Strange noises at night
Those bumps in the night might not be ghosts trying to scare you, but they might be the little furry kind instead.
Scratching, tapping sounds, or scurrying are all indicators that suggest either rodents or insects nesting. These will typically come from your walls, your attics, or your ceilings.
3.Property damage
No one likes to see damage done to their property, but unfortunately, when it comes to pests, they can be the ones to do some hefty damage to your home if not dealt with soon enough. Gnaw marks on wood and electrical wires are common with pests. Holes in food packaging and damaged fabrics can all be clear indicators that rodents or insects have moved in.
4.Unusual odors
A persistent musty or sweet, decomposing smell will often signify a rodent infestation or a dead pest hidden somewhere in the walls. The thought of dead rodents in your property is enough to make you get the pest control crew in.
5.Nests or debris
If you’re finding shredded paper, insulation, or fabric in areas of your home where it shouldn’t be, then this might indicate that nests are present. Shed skins from bed bugs or insects can indicate an active, reproducing population that you’ll want to sort out quickly.
What to do when you have pests in your home
If you have any number of pests in your home, consider doing the following:
- Deep clean your home to remove all crumbs, grease, and food waste present. Dispose of your garbage on a daily basis in secure and sealed bins.
- Remove any food or water sources, including pet food left out overnight.
- Seal all entry points with caulk or wire wool. Fill holes, cracks, and gaps around pipes to block access.
- Use traps/baits or insecticide spray to eliminate any infestation at its source.
- Remove piles of newspapers, old clothes, and cardboard, which provide many of the hiding spots.
If the pest problems continue, get pest control services in sooner rather than later. Sorting out the problem early will prevent a lot of stress and costly repair work that needs to be done.