What should I do to ensure there are no mice? - briefly
Seal cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, floors, and foundations; store food in airtight containers and promptly clean any spills. Regularly inspect the premises and use traps or bait stations as preventive measures.
What should I do to ensure there are no mice? - in detail
Preventing a rodent infestation requires a systematic approach that addresses entry, attraction, and detection.
Identify and seal all potential entry points. Examine the building’s exterior for gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and windows. Use steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing to close openings larger than a quarter‑inch. Install door sweeps and weather stripping to block gaps beneath doors.
Eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers. Clean crumbs and spills promptly. Keep garbage in sealed bins and remove waste regularly. Reduce clutter in storage areas, as debris provides shelter.
Maintain a dry environment. Repair leaking pipes, faucets, and roof leaks. Ensure proper drainage away from the foundation. Use dehumidifiers in damp basements or crawl spaces.
Deploy monitoring and control devices. Place snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and near identified pathways. Use bait stations with anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, following local regulations and safety guidelines. Rotate trap locations periodically to cover new activity zones.
Conduct regular inspections. Check traps and bait stations weekly. Look for fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or nesting material. Record findings to identify patterns and adjust preventive measures.
Consider professional assistance when infestations persist or when structural sealing exceeds DIY capabilities. Certified pest‑control operators can provide comprehensive assessments, targeted treatments, and ongoing monitoring plans.