What should be done if mice appear in an apartment on the ground floor? - briefly
Seal cracks, gaps, and utility openings, store food in airtight containers, and place snap traps or bait stations; if the infestation does not diminish, call a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should be done if mice appear in an apartment on the ground floor? - in detail
When rodents are discovered in a ground‑level flat, immediate action is required to protect health, property, and structural integrity.
First, identify all possible entry routes. Inspect walls, floors, windows, doors, utility penetrations, and the foundation for gaps larger than ¼ inch. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or appropriate caulking. Repair damaged screens and weather‑stripping.
Next, eliminate food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers, remove pet food after each feeding, and clean crumbs from countertops and floors. Dispose of garbage in sealed bins and empty them regularly.
Set up control devices promptly. Use a combination of snap traps and live‑catch traps placed along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected pathways. Bait with peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit for rapid capture. Position traps perpendicular to walls, with the trigger side facing the wall. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
If bait stations are preferred, choose tamper‑resistant units and place them out of reach of children and pets. Rotate bait types every few days to prevent bait shyness. Monitor activity and replenish as needed.
Maintain a clean environment to deter re‑infestation. Sweep and mop floors, vacuum corners, and clean behind furniture regularly. Keep storage areas organized, and avoid clutter that provides hiding places.
When the infestation persists despite these measures, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can conduct thorough inspections, apply rodenticides safely, and provide long‑term exclusion strategies.
Finally, establish a preventive routine: quarterly inspections of seals, periodic trap checks, and ongoing sanitation. Consistent vigilance reduces the likelihood of future rodent problems in a ground‑floor residence.