Few people are happy about sharing their space with insects or rodents, but a pest problem presents more problems than just having to live with the fear of having a creepy-crawly jump scare every time you open a cabinet or turn on the lights in a dark room. When pests make their way inside, they bring health hazards and can even threaten the structure of your home. Keeping a close eye out for signs of a pest problem can help you contact an exterminator in a timely manner before one of two critters turns into an infestation.
Let’s take a look at five common signs that indicate you need to contact an exterminator.
- Odd Sounds – Scratching, scurrying, or buzzing coming from beneath the floorboards or within the walls or ceiling is a major red flag. Rodents like mice and rats, as well as insects like termites, will create unsettling noises as they build nests and chew through wood and wires.
- Droppings & Urine Stains – Finding droppings around your home is a clear sign that you have unwanted invaders. They often show up in dark or unused areas, so keep a sharp eye out for small, pellet-like droppings or the distinct smell of urine, which is a hallmark sign of a rodent infestation.
- Visible Damage to Food Packaging – If it looks like the packaging of the food in your cabinets or pantry has been chewed on, you likely have a pest problem. Rodents, ants, and cockroaches are the most common culprits behind pantry pilfering, and they can contaminate your food if they get access to it.
- Signs of Nesting – Finding a nest or burrow in areas like the attic, under floorboards, or behind walls is a sure sign that you need to contact an exterminator ASAP. Rodents commonly build nests with materials like insulation, paper, and fabric, while insects like wasps and bees frequently build hives or nests in secluded areas.
- Dead Pests Indoors – Whether it’s a cockroach, mouse, wasp, or something else, finding one pest often means there are more nearby. It’s easy to brush a single sighting off, but it’s best to call an exterminator for added assurance and treatment if necessary.
