How can mice be removed from an apartment on the second floor? - briefly
Seal entry points, place snap or live traps with appropriate bait along walls, and keep food storage sealed and surfaces clean. Dispose of captured rodents promptly and monitor for signs of activity for several weeks.
How can mice be removed from an apartment on the second floor? - in detail
Eliminate rodents from a second‑story flat by following a systematic approach.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Identify signs such as gnaw marks, droppings, and nesting material. Trace possible entry routes: gaps around pipes, vents, windows, and utility lines. Measure each opening; any gap larger than a quarter‑inch permits access.
Seal all openings. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to small cracks, then cover with caulk or expanding foam. Install metal flashing around larger gaps. Replace damaged weatherstripping on doors and windows. Ensure that vent covers are fitted tightly.
Implement trapping and baiting. Choose snap traps for immediate kill, placing them perpendicular to walls with trigger side facing the wall. Use multiple traps in high‑activity zones: behind appliances, under sinks, and along baseboards. For bait stations, select anticoagulant rodenticides approved for indoor use; position them out of reach of children and pets, following label instructions. Rotate trap locations daily to prevent trap avoidance.
Maintain strict sanitation. Store food in sealed containers, remove crumbs, and clean spills promptly. Dispose of garbage in containers with tight lids. Eliminate water sources by fixing leaks and drying damp areas.
Monitor progress. Check traps and bait stations daily, recording captures. Continue sealing any new openings discovered during monitoring. Maintain a trap‑free environment for at least two weeks after the last sighting.
If activity persists despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Request an integrated pest‑management plan that combines exclusion, trapping, and, if necessary, targeted chemical treatment.
Prevent future infestations by conducting periodic inspections, keeping the living area tidy, and ensuring that all potential entry points remain sealed.