Â
Pests are unwelcome guests that can cause damage to our homes, health, and peace of mind. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner, knowing what to inspect for when looking for pests can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a comprehensive checklist to help you identify potential pest problems before they escalate.
Â
1. Exterior Inspection
a. Foundation and Walls
Inspect the foundation and walls for cracks, gaps, or holes that pests could use as entry points. Additionally, look for signs of mud tubes, which are indicative of termite activity.
b. Roof and Gutters
Check the roof for damaged or loose shingles, as well as clogged gutters. Clogged gutters can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests, leading to potential infestations.
c. Landscaping
Keep trees and shrubs trimmed and away from the house to prevent pests from using them as bridges. Remove standing water sources like birdbaths or clogged drains, which can attract mosquitoes and other pests.
2. Interior Inspection
a. Kitchen and Pantry
Inspect the kitchen and pantry for crumbs, spills, and food residue that can attract ants, cockroaches, and rodents. Additionally, check food storage areas for signs of pest activity, such as chewed packaging or droppings.
b. Bedrooms and Living Areas
Look for signs of bed bugs, such as dark spots on bedding or furniture, and bites on your skin. Inspect upholstered furniture and carpets for signs of carpet beetles or other fabric-eating pests.
c. Basements and Attics
Check for moisture issues in basements and attics, as damp environments can attract pests like termites, silverfish, and mold. Look for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, nests, or gnaw marks on wires and wood.
3. Common Pests to Look Out For
a. Insects
Ants, cockroaches, termites, and bed bugs are common household pests that can cause structural damage and health issues if left untreated.
b. Rodents
Rats and mice are notorious for spreading diseases, contaminating food, and causing damage to your home’s infrastructure.
c. Wildlife
Squirrels, raccoons, and birds can become pests if they gain access to your home, causing damage and potentially spreading diseases.
4. Professional Inspection and Prevention
Consider hiring a licensed pest control professional to conduct a thorough inspection of your property. They can identify potential problem areas that you might have missed and provide expert recommendations for prevention.
Implement preventative measures, such as sealing cracks and gaps, installing screens on windows and doors, and using pest-resistant materials to keep pests at bay.
Elite Pest and Termite Control has a program that will work for you. Give us a call!Â
Standard Program
General Pest Control & Rodent
-
General Pest Control & Rodent Protection - Scheduled Quarterly Service 4x a Year
- Interior and Exterior Treatment
- Guaranteed Services
Premium Program
General Pest Control & Rodent
Mosquito & Tick
-
General Pest Control & Rodent Protection - Scheduled Quarterly Service 4x a Year
- Interior and Exterior Treatment
- Guaranteed Services
- 6 Mosquito & Tick Services
- Bundled Pricing for Convenience
Elite
Program
General Pest Control & Rodent
Mosquito & Tick
Termite
- General Pest Control & Rodent Protection
- Scheduled Quarterly Service 4x a Year
- Interior and Exterior Treatment
- Guaranteed Services
- 6 Mosquito & Tick Services
- Bundled Pricing for Convenience
- Termite Service Plan
- 10% Off Additional Service Types
Â
Being proactive in inspecting for pests is key to maintaining a pest-free home or business environment. By regularly checking both the exterior and interior of your property for signs of pest activity and taking preventative measures, you can avoid costly damage and potential health risks associated with pest infestations. Remember, if you suspect a serious pest problem, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from Elite Pest and Termite Control to ensure effective treatment and peace of mind.