Homeowners can take preventive measures to avert a rodent infestation. Mice and rats are flexible creatures; rats can scoot through small holes while mice can squeeze through much smaller holes. Therefore, one of the first things a homeowner should do is inspect for possible entry holes, both inside and outside of the home.

Plumbing fixtures and any other piping or equipment that penetrates walls, floors or ceilings should be investigated. Holes made to facilitate installations can often leave gaps large enough for rodents to enter the home. Check under all sinks, drains, dryer vents and washing machine piping. Additionally, check the area around water heaters and furnaces as these warm areas attract rodents.

Inspect all floor vents and ductwork for gaps left open during installation. Of course, the attic is a prime location for rodent entry, so check for holes around the edges and missing ventilation covers. Cabinets, especially those on outside walls, should be checked for openings.

Mice and rats can be carriers of various diseases, either directly or indirectly. The rodent, itself may be infected with a number of diseases; it may have parasites that bring the diseases into the home. Note that the Bubonic Plague of the middle 1300s was spread, not so much by the rodents themselves, but by the insects and parasites that they carried. From viruses to bacterial infections, these diseases can affect various body functions and systems, including pulmonary function, fevers and blood circulatory systems. Water supplies that are infected by rodent urine can cause deadly bacterial growth.

Rodents love to gnaw on everything. This can cause damage to electrical wiring, piping insulation and wood structural members. Many times, attics are nesting areas for rodents. They can cause considerable damage to attic insulation and electrical wiring.

There are several indicators of mouse and rat infestation. The presence of rodent droppings, small, dark pellets, is one of the first things a homeowner will notice. The droppings will not usually be found in piles, but scattered along the trail as the rodent explores. A few prime places to look for rodent droppings include underneath sinks, around the perimeter of a room and in cabinets.

Mouse and rodent nests are also good indicators. These nests are made of finely shredded paper or other fibrous material and located in sheltered areas.

Of course, gnaw marks and holes, especially in cardboard containers, are another prime sign. That’s why it is a good idea to keep cereal, grains and other foods in plastic or metal containers. Rodents tend to cache their food supply, so look for small pockets of food in sheltered locations as well.

Caution must be exercised when cleaning up after a rodent infestation. Ventilation is important, so open windows and doors, allowing the area to air out for at least 30 minutes.

The first step after ventilation is to clean up any urine and fecal droppings. Do not use a vacuum cleaner or broom to sweep up droppings or nesting materials as this will stir up dust and spread contamination. Use a commercial disinfectant or prepare a solution of 10 parts water to 1 part bleach and place in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the droppings and nests, allowing them to soak for at least five minutes. Wear rubber, latex or vinyl gloves for protection. A respirator is also recommended.

Pick up the droppings, etc. with a paper towel and dispose of them immediately. Clean and disinfect the entire area with the disinfectant, including floors, shelves and countertops. After cleaning is completed, be sure to wash your hands and clothing before eating or ingesting any liquids.

Apex Environmental Leeds built of top professionals in the pest control industry in the UK. It is with these honed skills and a continuing dedication to our customers that we expand our services to Leeds and surrounding areas.

While our team of hard-working professionals continues to grow, Apex Environmental is dedicated to quality standards when it comes to environmentally-conscious practices. That’s why, regardless of the type of service, our clients can rest assured we are taking great care to use few to no harmful chemicals in our work. With free quotes to all our new clients and around the clock service, Apex Environmental puts the customer first, every time.

All of our vehicles are unmarked so you can be sure of a discreet pest control Leeds service every time.

We operate a comprehensive rat control service which response to issues at both residential and commercial properties across the city and we would expect areas with higher population density to be the subject of a higher number of calls.

Apex Environmental Leeds aims to respond to any reports from residents within 24 hours 7 days a week and would urge anyone experiencing issues with pests to contact us wherever you live on 0113 3904270.