(BPT) – Moving into a new home is chaotic. You’ve got decorating to do, a neighborhood to explore, and a house to keep in tiptop shape. The last thing you need in the midst of all that commotion is the added headache of household pests like ants, cockroaches or rodents. With a few tips from Terminix, you can keep your move running smoothly and ensure no unexpected pests move in with you.
Look for collecting water
Stagnant or standing water attracts a variety of pests, from nuisance wildlife to mosquitoes. It doesn’t take a lot of water, either — mosquitoes can lay as many as 100 eggs in the cap of a bottle of water. Try to reduce standing water in sources such as pots and tires, and be sure to change out your bird bath at least once a week.
Inspect for openings
Check the exterior of your new house for structural openings under doors, near windows and around utility penetrations. Any openings you find are essentially an open door to rodents and arthropods, such as spiders and millipedes. Reduce the number of pests entering your home by sealing any improper openings.
Be wary of trees and shrubbery
That flowering bush might look beautiful beside your home, but it could harbor countless pests. Note any tree limbs overhanging your roof line and any shrubbery or mulch close to the foundation of your home. These features play host to many different types of pests, and having them touch your house only makes it easier for pests to enter.
Check for moisture issues
Some pests, like termites, cockroaches and carpenter ants, love moisture and are more likely to be found in damp areas of your house. Check your new home for any moisture issues. This could mean anything from a leaky roof to plumbing and seals that should be fixed.
Look for insufficient screening in key areas
While you’re checking for moisture issues, you can also look for insufficient screening around plumbing or drains. Inspect the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room to ensure all openings are properly covered. Otherwise, you could find your kitchen playing host to pests like silverfish, spiders, ants or cockroaches.
Call in the professionals
Even the most diligent homeowners may still find themselves with a pest problem too big to tackle alone. Pest control professionals such as Terminix’s trained technicians can protect you and your new home from any unwelcome guests.
