Rodent Control
Mice and rats reproduce quickly, chew through wiring (a fire risk), and spread disease. Effective control combines sealing entry points (exclusion), trapping, and removing food and shelter, with exclusion being the key to keeping them out for good.
Typical cost: $200 to $600
Signs of a rodent problem
- Droppings along walls, in cabinets, or near food
- Gnaw marks on packaging, wires, or wood
- Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls or ceilings at night
- Nests of shredded material in hidden areas
Treatment options
- Exclusion: sealing gaps with steel wool, caulk, and door sweeps
- Snap-trap and multi-catch trapping programs
- Sanitation and harborage removal
- Professional baiting where appropriate and safe
How to prevent them
- Seal any gap larger than a dime (mice) or a quarter (rats)
- Store food and pet food in sealed containers
- Keep trash sealed and declutter storage areas
- Trim vegetation and remove outdoor food sources
When they're most active
Rodents push indoors in fall and winter seeking warmth and food, so late summer is a smart time to seal up. Activity can continue year-round once they're established inside.
Rodent Control: frequently asked questions
Mice vs rats, does it matter?
Yes. Rats are larger, more cautious of new objects, and need bigger traps and a different baiting strategy. A pro will identify the species and treat accordingly.
Are rodent poisons safe at home?
Rodenticides carry risks to pets, children, and wildlife. Trapping and exclusion are safer first steps; let a licensed pro handle any baiting.
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