Mice are in the walls of a private house, what should be done? - briefly
Seal entry points, install traps or bait stations, and engage a licensed pest‑control service to eradicate the infestation. Remove food sources and keep the interior clean to prevent future intrusion.
Mice are in the walls of a private house, what should be done? - in detail
Rodent activity within the wall cavities of a residence requires a systematic response to protect structural integrity, electrical wiring, and indoor air quality.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Identify audible signs, droppings, gnaw marks, and grease trails. Use a flashlight and, if possible, a borescope to locate the exact points of entry and nesting sites. Document each opening, paying special attention to gaps around pipes, vents, and utility penetrations.
Seal all access routes before deploying control measures. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to small cracks, then cover with a durable caulking compound or expanding foam. For larger openings, install metal flashing or hardware cloth (minimum ¼‑inch mesh) secured with screws. Ensure the exterior façade is weather‑stripped to prevent re‑entry.
Select an appropriate control method.
- Mechanical traps – Snap traps positioned near active runways provide immediate reduction. Use bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit, and place traps perpendicular to the wall with the trigger end facing the expected travel direction.
- Live‑catch traps – Suitable when relocation is preferred; check daily and release captured rodents at least 2 km from the property.
- Bait stations – Enclosed anticoagulant or bromadiolone stations should be installed by a licensed professional, especially when infestation density is high.
Integrate sanitation practices to remove attractants. Store food in sealed containers, eliminate standing water, and keep garbage bins closed. Clean up any spilled grain, pet food, or compost that may be accessible from the exterior.
Consider professional pest‑management services for extensive infestations or when structural damage is suspected. Certified technicians can perform wall cavity inspections, apply rodenticides safely, and provide a written remediation plan.
After eradication, conduct a follow‑up inspection to verify that no new activity has emerged. Maintain a schedule of quarterly checks, especially during colder months when rodents seek shelter. Replace damaged insulation, repair compromised wiring, and keep exterior vegetation trimmed to reduce concealment opportunities.
By following these steps—inspection, exclusion, targeted control, sanitation, and ongoing monitoring—the homeowner can eliminate the problem and prevent future incursions.