Keeping your home free from pests will safeguard the safety of your living space and protect your property from damage. Perth, with its hot, dry summers and wet winters, is known for its diverse pest problems. This checklist can help Perth homeowners conduct a thorough inspection of their homes for potential pest issues.
1. Foundations and External Walls
- Check for Cracks and Gaps: Look for any openings in the foundation or exterior walls. Even small cracks can be an entry point for pests like cockroaches or rodents.
- Inspect Weep Holes: Ensure they are clear of blockages but protected with a mesh to prevent pests from entering.
2. Roof and Attic Spaces
- Inspect Roof Tiles and Shingles: Look for damages or gaps where pests like rodents and birds could enter.
- Check Attic Vents: Ensure they are secure and have no holes that might allow pests to infiltrate.
3. Gutter and Drainage Systems
- Clear Debris: Regularly clean gutters and drains to prevent standing water, which can attract pests like mosquitoes.
- Inspect for Leaks: Ensure downpipes and gutters are not leaking as moisture attracts many pests. It’s important to connect downpipes to a stormwater system to manage moisture near possible property entry points. Failure to do so can lead to costly damages due to pests, like termites, entering your home as a result of leaking downpipes that wash away the soil in the termite-treated zone.
4. Windows and Doors
- Screen Check: Ensure that all windows and door screens are intact without any tears.
- Seal Gaps: Use weather stripping around doors and windows to seal off gaps from pests like spiders.
5. Gardens and Outdoor Areas
- Trim Vegetation: Keep shrubs and tree branches trimmed back from the house to reduce pest access.
- Remove Standing Water: Check for puddles or containers that can collect water, creating a breeding ground for insects like mosquitoes and flies.
6. Garages and Sheds
- Inspect for Openings: Check for and seal any gaps or holes in the structure.
- Organise and Store Items Properly: Ensure garbage and recycling bins are sealed and store items off the ground to avoid providing shelter for pests like rats.
7. Kitchen and Bathrooms
- Check Under Sinks: Look for moisture issues and leaks as these can attract pests like cockroaches.
- Inspect Cabinets and Pantries: Look for signs of pests, such as droppings or damaged food packaging.
8. Basement or Crawlspace
- Look for Moisture: Use a flashlight to check for any signs of dampness or condensation.
- Inspect for Pests: Look for any signs of termites, rodents, or other pests, including droppings, nests, or damage.
9. General Interior Inspection
- Check for Signs of Termites: Pay attention to woodwork, skirting boards, and architraves for any hollow sounds or visible damage.
- Look for Droppings and Nests: Identifying droppings or nests inside can indicate an active infestation.
10. Engage a Professional Pest Inspector For Peace of Mind
- Routine Check-ups: Even if no immediate signs of pests are found, an annual pest inspection is recommended especially in areas prone to termite activity, like Perth.
By regularly using this checklist, Perth homeowners can stay one step ahead of potential pest issues. Early detection is key to preventing infestations and the costly damage that pests can inflict on your property. When in doubt, or if an infestation is suspected, it’s wise to call on SURE Pest Control who has the expertise to safely and effectively deal with your pest problem.
