What Infestation Signs to Look for When House Hunting
There are many things to consider when you’re house hunting, including pests. If you buy a home that’s infested with pests, you could get an unpleasant surprise down the line. When you’re house hunting, Orlando pest removal experts recommend watching out for these infestation signs.
Pest Droppings
Droppings are a clear sign of pest activity. Rodent droppings are 1/8-1/4” long and can be found in areas near food, like kitchen cupboards and pantries. Smaller droppings that look like coffee grains or black pepper could be left by cockroaches.
Holes and Gnaw Marks
Rodents need to gnaw constantly to wear down their constantly growing teeth. They also chew through materials to get to food or water. If you see any holes or gnaw marks around the house, rodents could be living inside.
Dead Bugs Indoors
As you look through your potential home, keep an eye out for dead bugs. If you see a lot of the same type of bug, you can assume more are living on the property. Window ledges and basements are key places to find dead bugs.
Nesting Materials
Rodents like to make warm, cozy nests in hard-to-find places. They use materials like shredded paper or fabric to build these nests. As you tour potential homes, peek in hidden nooks and crannies with a flashlight.
Signs of Termites
As you tour the home, watch for signs of termites. Blistering wood, uneven or bubbling paint, and discarded wings are some clues the home has a termite problem. Mud tubes are another warning sign; these are usually found around homes’ foundations.
Unusual Holes or Sawdust Piles
Wood-destroying pests can leave unusual holes around homes. Check around the woodwork, like window sills and molding. Also, watch for piles of sawdust that these pests leave behind.
Grease Marks or Tracks
Look out for dark smears on walls, floors, or around corners. Dark smears in these areas could be caused by rats. Rats have oily fur, and when their bodies brush against surfaces, they leave grease behind. You could also see their tracks around the home.
Odd Smells and Sounds
Unpleasant smells can be a sign that pests are lurking out of sight. A musty, urine smell can be a sign of a rodent problem, while an oily smell can mean cockroaches are nearby. Pest infestations can also have noticeable sounds, like squeaking or scratching noises.
Nearby Breeding Grounds
Don’t forget to check outside the house, too. Outdoor infestations can easily move inside and become a big problem.
If you’ve found your dream home, don’t make an offer until you’re sure it’s pest-free. Contact the Orlando pest removal experts at Apex to have the home professionally inspected. We’re here to be your number one resource for all things pests, check out our blog to learn more!
