What should be done to keep mice and rats out of the house? - briefly
Seal all gaps and cracks, store food in airtight containers, keep the interior clean, and employ traps or bait stations where signs of activity appear.
What should be done to keep mice and rats out of the house? - in detail
To prevent rodents from entering a residence, begin with a thorough inspection of the building envelope. Identify any gaps larger than a quarter‑inch around doors, windows, utility penetrations, vents, and the foundation. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam to seal cracks; install door sweeps and weather‑stripping on exterior doors. Replace damaged screens and repair torn roofing or siding.
Maintain an environment that does not attract food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs and spills, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Do not leave pet food out overnight. Remove clutter, especially cardboard boxes and piles of newspapers, which provide nesting material.
Implement physical barriers and trapping measures. Place snap traps or electronic devices along walls, behind appliances, and in known travel routes. For humane control, consider live‑catch traps, but release captured animals at least two miles from the property to prevent re‑entry. Bait stations containing anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides may be used where legal; follow label instructions and keep them inaccessible to children and non‑target wildlife.
Establish a regular monitoring schedule. Inspect traps and bait stations weekly, record activity, and adjust placement as needed. Conduct seasonal checks, focusing on spring and autumn when rodent populations surge. If infestations persist despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑management professional for targeted treatment and advice.
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