How can rodents damage my home?

Rodents love to gnaw on common household materials, such as wood, particle board, wiring, insulation, plastic, vinyl and plaster. Rodents are forced to gnaw in order to file down their teeth, which are always growing. A rodent that gnaws on electrical wiring can potentially cause a short circuit that leads to a house fire.

What attracts rodents to a home?

Rodents are always in search of food, water and shelter. That’s why it’s important to keep your home clean and tidy – particularly where the kitchen is concerned.

What are the signs of a rodent infestation?

Rodents leave ample evidence of their activities, especially after a busy night (rodents are nocturnal). Keep an eye out for the following:-

• Droppings – usually pellet or banana shaped; dark brown / black in colour; range in size from several millimetres up to 20 millimetres (large rat).
• Foul urine smell – rodent urine has a strong musky odour.
• Gnaw marks on food and household materials.
• Tracks and runways – a group of rodents using a “common path” will leave behind footprints, greasy marks, urine stains and droppings.
• A rodent nest – you may stumble upon a rodent nest in a kitchen, wall or roof cavity (usually characterised by shredded paper, dried plant matter, droppings and urine smells / stains).
• Scampering, gnawing, scratching and squeaking noises in your roof, walls or under your home.