Mice and rats can cause numerous problems in your home if you do not prevent them taking up residence, or get rid of them if they have already gained entry. They can affect the structural security of your premises by gnawing on wood, and they can chew right through electrical wiring, which is obviously a fire hazard.
Mice can also spread diseases such as salmonella and Lyme disease, whereas rats can transmit hemorrhagic fever and leptospirosis. You do not want to leave your home at risk from wild rodents and you should contact a pest control service if you suspect that you already have a problem with rats and mice in your home.
How to make problems less likely
There is always a chance that rodents will set up home in your property, but there are steps you can take to make this situation a lot less likely. If you do not have a problem at present, it’s a good idea to put this advice to use.
Keep your home clean and tidy
Rats and mice are very resourceful when it comes to finding sources of food and water. This is why you need to ensure that they do not find any sources inside your home.
Clear out your kitchen cupboards and make sure they are kept clean.
Never leave uncovered food unattended on work surfaces, especially overnight.
Empty kitchen bins daily and make sure they are always covered.
Clear debris such as boxes and piles of clothing from around your home, especially hidden away areas such as the attic and basement. This prevents rodents from finding a warm, safe place to live.
You may also want to use some methods of pest control in your home, to make an infestation less likely; click here for more information.
Tidy up your outside space
It’s not just the interior of your home that can attract rats and mice to your property. Your outside space can be the first area that catches their attention.
Cut back bushes and shrubs so that your garden is not an overgrown and inviting space.
Cut back trees to eliminate the existence of shadowed spots for rats to hang out in.
Keep grass neat and tidy to eliminate a possible hiding spot for rodents.
Block up potential entry points
One of the most important actions you can take is to make it as difficult as possible for rats and mice to enter the interior of your home.
Block up holes and gaps where they may be able to get in. Even a small hole may provide sufficient space.
Repair damage around drainpipes and vents.
Fit weatherproofing around doors and windows.
All of these actions can help to make your property more secure against rodents.
If you see, hear or smell signs of the presence of rats or mice in your home, it’s a good idea to seek expert help to get rid of them. These signs can include chewing of wood and wiring, staining caused by urine, droppings, the smell of urine and scurrying noises in crawl spaces and the attic of your home.
