Top Tips on How to Prepare for a Pest Inspection Efficiently

niconichols2022
Oct 9
3 min read

Getting ready for a pest inspection doesn't have to be overwhelming. A little preparation goes a long way in making the process smooth and thorough. When you take the time to get your property ready, inspectors can do their job more effectively and spot any issues that need attention. Coolidge's trusted pest control team recommends following some straightforward steps to make your inspection as productive as possible. This guide will walk you through the practical actions you can take before your scheduled visit.

Clear Out the Clutter and Clean Up

Start by removing items that create hiding spots for unwanted critters. Piles of boxes, stacks of papers, and general clutter make it hard for inspectors to check every corner of your home. Focus on kitchens and bathrooms since these rooms tend to attract the most activity. Vacuum your carpets, sweep the floors, and wipe down your counters to get rid of food crumbs and spills. Don't forget to check your basement and attic for dampness; pests love moist environments and will seek them out.

Block Their Way In

Walk around the outside of your home and look for any gaps, cracks, or openings. Check around your doors, windows, pipes, and vents; these are the usual entry points. Use caulk for small cracks, weatherstripping for doors and windows, and wire mesh for larger openings. Door sweeps work great for keeping things out from under your doors. Taking the time to seal these spots creates a solid barrier that keeps pests from getting inside in the first place.

Fix Any Moisture Problems

Pests need water to survive, so getting rid of excess moisture is crucial. Here are three simple ways to tackle this:

Look for Leaks: Check your pipes, faucets, and appliances regularly. Even small drips can create the damp conditions that pests need.
Improve Air Flow: Make sure your basement, attic, and crawl spaces have good ventilation. This keeps humidity down and prevents moisture from building up.
Run Dehumidifiers: If you have particularly damp areas, a dehumidifier can help maintain the right humidity level and make your home less appealing to pests.

Keep Plants Trimmed Back

The bushes and trees around your house shouldn't touch your walls or roof. Overgrown plants create convenient highways for rodents and insects to reach your home. They also create shady, damp spots where pests like to hide and build nests. Pay special attention to branches that hang over your roof or touch your siding, as they act as bridges straight to your house. A well-maintained yard looks better and helps keep pests away from your home.

Take Care of Repairs

Any damage to your property needs attention before pests turn it into an entry point. Here's what to focus on:

Fill Gaps: Look for any cracks or holes in your foundation, walls, or siding. Fill them with caulk or stuff them with steel wool, depending on the size.
Fix Your Screens: Check all your window and door screens for tears or holes. Replace damaged screens right away since even small rips let pests in.
Stop Drips: Fix any leaking pipes or faucets. Standing water and dampness draw pests looking for a drink.

Keep Your Records Organized

Having a good filing system for your inspection documents makes life easier. Set up a folder, either physical or digital, for each area or property you need to track. Label everything with dates, what was found, and what action was taken. A simple spreadsheet can help you spot patterns or problems that keep coming back. Update your records after each inspection so you always have current information at your fingertips. Good record-keeping helps you stay on top of pest activity and make smart decisions about prevention and treatment.

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