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Preparation — Rodents (Mice and Rats)

Preparing your home correctly helps our technician identify entry points and place control devices in strategic locations.

Rodents (Mice and Rats)
Estimated time: 1 to 2 hours
Easy
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Preparation Steps

  1. 1

    Tidy and clean cluttered areas in the basement, garage, attic and closets. Rodents use clutter to move and nest undetected.

  2. 2

    Store all accessible food (pantry, countertops, pet food) in airtight glass or metal containers. Mice can chew through plastic and cardboard.

  3. 3

    Identify and report to the technician any rodent signs you have observed: droppings, gnaw marks, wall noises, grease marks along baseboards.

  4. 4

    Clear access along all exterior and interior walls, particularly in the basement and kitchen, to allow the technician to inspect and install devices.

  5. 5

    Take out garbage and clean bins. Make sure outdoor garbage cans have tight-fitting lids and are away from the house.

  6. 6

    Check the exterior of the house and note any holes or cracks around foundations, pipes, cables and ventilation ducts. Report them to the technician for sealing.

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Pro Tips

  • Trim vegetation and branches touching the house — mice and rats use them as a bridge to access the roof and attic.
  • Place bird feeders away from the house — fallen seeds attract rodents.
  • Note the times and locations where you hear noises to help the technician determine rodent travel routes.
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Mistakes to Avoid

  • Do NOT handle rodent droppings bare-handed — wear disposable gloves and a mask. Mouse droppings can transmit hantavirus.
  • Do NOT place store-bought rat poison — improperly placed products are dangerous for children, pets and wildlife, and poisoned rodents can die in walls causing odors.
  • Do NOT plug holes yourself before the inspection — the technician must first identify all entry points and rodent pathways.

After Treatment

  • 1Do not touch or move bait stations and traps installed by the technician. Check them visually and report any activity to the technician.
  • 2Continue storing food in airtight containers even after treatment. This is the best way to prevent rodent return.
  • 3Seal the holes identified by the technician within 48 hours of the visit, or request our sealing service.
  • 4Monitor for signs of new activity (new droppings, noises) and contact us immediately if you observe any. Quick follow-up is the key to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to empty cabinets before mouse treatment?
You do not need to completely empty your cabinets for mouse treatment. However, you must store food in airtight containers and clear access along walls to allow the technician to inspect and install control devices.
Do mice come back after extermination treatment?
Mice can return if entry points are not sealed and if conditions that attract them persist (accessible food, clutter). This is why our treatment includes identifying entry points and sealing recommendations for a lasting solution.
Are cats and dogs at risk during rodent treatment?
Our technicians use secured bait stations designed to prevent access by children and pets. However, we recommend keeping your pets away from treatment areas and never letting them play with a dead rodent.

Need help with preparation?

Our team is available to answer all your questions and guide you through your treatment preparation.