Spring is prime time for pests, and many will find their way into homes during the season. Completing evaluations and any possible preventative measures can greatly reduce pest and wildlife incidence.
In many species, spring is a prime time for reproduction. As populations rise, many animal parents seek a safe space to give birth, lay eggs or otherwise shelter their new babies. Unfortunately, the climate-controlled shelter that vulnerable homes offer can be a top choice for these critters, meaning homeowners need to be aware of warning signs and preventative measures to keep their homes safe and infestation-free during the height of the season.
Has an Animal Already Gotten In?
It is possible that an animal has established its spot in a home, even if the residents are not acutely aware. Less obvious signs, including chew marks, damaged insulation and animal droppings, can indicate wildlife presence.
Often, when animals enter a home, they do so through cracks, small gaps in siding, and unsecured windows and doors.
Crawlspaces, basements, attics, chimneys and other less-commonly occupied areas are favorites of pests and wildlife because of easy accessibility, a dry, dark hiding spot and less human traffic.
What Can You Do?
Do-it-yourself wildlife checks are a great place to start. Whether you believe an animal has already made its way into the home or is simply looking to get ahead of the issue, some basic tools and a bit of time can establish a solid foundational understanding of the state of the home and any potential issues.
Bringing along a flashlight and camera or notepad to document areas of concern will ensure you have the most productive investigation.
Owners need to understand which animals are prevalent in their community, and any signs or preferences of those specific critters. From here, the visual evaluation begins.
While outdoors, you should look for things like droppings, footprints, and signs of digging or chewing to understand where animals may be coming from or trying to enter. A holistic view of the exterior of the home, including an evaluation of any cracks, holes or gaps can help you identify other potential weak points.
Moving inside, experts suggest focusing attention on the attic and basement. The same signs should be checked for, but another easy step to take is to turn off the lights. This will reveal any places where outdoor light is able to come in, indicating areas of concern.
Is It Time To Call an Inspector?
While standard home inspections can reveal possible weaknesses in a home as it relates to pest presence, many home inspectors also offer pest-specific inspection services. Securing this type of inspection is a great way to ensure everything is evaluated thoroughly and easy-to-miss areas receive the attention they need.
In many cases, areas like the roof and attic can be difficult, or even dangerous, to try to evaluate alone. A qualified inspector has the necessary tools to do so safely.
An inspector can also check for potential vulnerabilities and the presence of any existing infestations, preparing you fully to address any issues that have already manifested and complete any preventative steps.
Preventative Measures To Take
Depending on the vulnerability and type of pest prevalent in the area, preventative measures may vary. Some of the most popular—and easy—steps to take include
avoiding leaving food out as it might attract wildlife, protecting plumbing areas, and sealing or filling any gaps or holes in the structure of the home.
If an infestation has already been established, pest management services may be required to address the issue. However, proper preventative practices will greatly reduce the likelihood of recurrence in the future.
