Although there are many things to consider when house hunting, one of the most important factors to consider is pests. If you’re looking to buy a house, gain some peace of mind and avoid any nasty surprises down the track by properly inspecting the house for pests and pest infestations. We’ve compiled a list of ten signs to look out for when perusing your next potential home.
1. Pest droppings
Pest droppings are one of the easiest and clearest ways to find out if the house you’re looking to buy has a pest problem. This is particularly effective for rats and mice. There are many affordable and effective remedies for rat removal in Melbourne, so make sure you are educated about your options in case you need to take this step.
2. Holes and gnaw marks
Small holes in the walls and floors, or holes in or around the property are a giveaway of a possible infestation. Rats love to gnaw on things, and finding little gnaw marks can be a sign of an infestation. Be on the lookout for chewed-up electrical wires, and other things that rats might have destroyed.
3. Dead bugs indoors
If there are many bugs of the same species, they probably live on the property. Check window ledges and basements for dead bugs.
4. Nesting materials
Pests love to hide in discrete, hard-to-find areas. Use a flashlight to check all hidden corner, nooks and crannies of the house you’re inspecting. Red flags to keep an eye out for include bundled up shredded paper, fabric or insulation.
5. Signs of termites
Termites are extremely destructive pests that can drastically affect the structure of a building. Check the wood in your potential home for sagging, hollow sounds and holes. Tan-coloured fecal pellets and shedded wings of termites are also sure signs of an infestation.
6. Unusual holes or sawdust piles
If you find small piles of sawdust or a powdery residue near the woodwork in your home (such as windowsills or molding), it would be the handiwork of a wood-destroying pest. Other signs of wood-destroying pests can include loose trim, sagging floors, mud tubes, and blistered or wavy wood.
7. Grease marks or tracks
Mice and rats tend to use the same entry and exit points, often leaving a trail or grease in their wake. Check the sides of walls for dark marks, as well as the rest of the house for droppings, footprints and urine trails.
8. Odd smells and sounds
Pests undoubtedly exude an odour that is distinctly foreign. If you notice a lingering, unusual smell, be sure to check your house thoroughly using these guidelines. Pests also make noise, albeit small ones. The pattering of feet, scratching, gnawing, squeaking and scurrying may all be signs of a pest infestation in the house.
9. Complaints from previous tenants
An easy way to find out a house’s tendency for pest infestations is to check with previous owners or tenants. It may also help to ask neighbours of any previous experiences with pests.
10. Nearby breeding grounds
It can also be beneficial to check the outdoor grounds of a house for signs of pests. Look for loose garbage, alleyways, hanging wires and stagnant water, as these are all areas where pests love to occupy.
Having pests removed is a costly affair, but the costs of not finding an infestation early can be much greater. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Be proactive and find the problems that may be in your home, before they become serious. Stay vigilant, and remember these 10 helpful tips when checking for pest infestations in your family home.
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