Handling pest problems promptly is important but many times home and business owners don’t know they have a pest problem until there’s an infestation. The initial step is recognizing that a problem exists. But how do you know if you need to hire a pest control company?
Recognizing the most common signs of an infestation and understanding the risks associated can help you take quick action when you first suspect a pest problem. Learn more about these signs and the benefits of using a pest control company.
Recognizing the Signs of a Pest Infestation
Understanding and identifying the signs of a pest infestation can help you mitigate potential damages and seek professional assistance in a timely manner. Let’s examine some common signs that you might require pest control services.
Actual Sighting of Pests
The most conspicuous sign of a pest infestation is seeing pests in or around your home or business. This could include roaches, rats, mice, bed bugs, or other unwelcome visitors.
While a single sighting might not necessarily indicate a full-blown infestation, regular or multiple sightings – particularly during daylight hours when many pests tend to be less active – may suggest a more significant problem.
If you notice an insect or rodent in a place where it’s not usually seen, like your kitchen or bedroom, this could be a warning of a larger infestation.
Strange Smells
Unusual or foul odors can often serve as a clue to a hidden pest infestation. For instance, the musty, sweet smell of cockroach droppings is an indicator of their presence. Similarly, a strong ammonia-like odor could be a sign of a rodent infestation.
Certain insects, such as bed bugs, emit a distinct, sweet, and musty scent. Beyond these, a persistent, unexplained smell could also indicate the presence of a dead animal in your premises.
Gnawed or Damaged Fabric
Pests like rats, mice, and moths can inflict noticeable damage to your belongings. You might notice gnaw marks on furniture, chewed wires, or holes in clothes or other fabrics.
You might also find shredded paper, which rodents often use to build their nests. Regular inspection of your possessions can help spot such damages early and prevent further destruction.
Pest Droppings
The presence of pest droppings is another surefire sign of an infestation. Different pests produce different types of droppings – rat droppings are usually spindle-shaped, while mouse droppings are smaller and pointed at both ends.
Cockroach droppings might resemble coffee grounds or black pepper, while bed bug droppings usually appear as dark spots on infested surfaces. It’s essential to regularly inspect corners, along walls, behind furniture, and other secluded areas for signs of droppings.
Different Sounds
Lastly, pests often produce distinctive sounds, serving as telltale signs of an infestation. You might hear the sound of rapid scampering, or other noises, such as squeaking, squealing, scurrying, flapping, or whining.
It’s worth noting that these sounds become especially noticeable at night when the house is quiet and pests are most active. In the case of larger pests like raccoons, you might even hear louder noises like thumping or crashing.
Notice These Signs? Call Phenom Pest Control Today!
Being aware of the warning signs of a pest infestation plays a key role in protecting your home or business from potential damage.
Whether you spot pests, hear unusual noises, notice damage to your property, or experience unusual allergic reactions, these are concerns to take seriously. During your routine home checks, observe every space closely and document any irregularities.
If these issues become apparent, it’s time to call for professional help! Remember, pests multiply rapidly, causing extensive damage in a short time.
The Phenom Pest Control team is ready to assist. If you suspect a pest problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
We can schedule a thorough inspection and devise a customized service plan to restore your peace of mind and protect your investment.
