Pro Tips & Advice
Know what you’re up against when it comes to rodents.
Know what you’re up against when it comes to rodents.
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In the last year alone, rodent activity throughout the Bay Area has increased 37% YoY. In fact, over the last decade, it’s gone up:
Rodents are prolific breeders, and if control measures aren’t acted upon, they’ll simply repopulate.
Rodents are also extremely versatile – mice can enter houses through gaps, cracks, and holes that are as small as ¼ inch, which is about the diameter of a #2 pencil. [Rats need roughly ½ in – about the diameter of a AA battery.]
In fact, structural defects are the #1 overall cause of rodent infestations in the US, to which homeowners are:
The other issue is that 52% of homeowners opt for DIY solutions when dealing with rodent problems, despite the following:
On your initial inspection, if you see any cracks, holes, or crevice, fill it in with either dirt/soil or crumpled paper, then return 24 hours later to see if there’s been any change. If it’s been removed, that will tell you it’s an entry point
Primary food sources include:
The top 3 controllable factors that can worsen a rodent problem are:
With plenty of food and shelter, often made worse by trash and messy yards:
Rodents pose more than just a nuisance—they can have serious financial and health repercussions. For example:
Around 25% of fires with “unknown causes” annually are likely started by rodents chewing on gas lines, wires, and more, leading to an average repair cost of $20,351.
This happens because rats’ teeth grow 4-5 inches per year and never stop growing. They can chew 6 times per second with a force 12 times stronger than a human bite.
Rodents do this in two main ways:
Rodents can also spread up to 35 diseases to humans through various means, including:
The most common way people inhale contaminants from rodents is through improper cleaning, which stirs up harmful particles from their urine, feces, or nests. When you use everyday cleaning products like paper towels or bleach on these materials, it can cause the particles to become airborne, making it easy to breathe them in.
This happens because wiping or spraying can break down the rodent waste, turning it into tiny particles that float in the air. Without proper ventilation or protective gear, these particles can be inhaled, leading to serious health risks. Other ways to inhale contaminants include disturbing rodent nests directly or stirring up dust in areas where rodents have been active.
This is especially dangerous in poorly ventilated areas with active rodent infestations, which remains the #1 risk factor for infection.
While there might be some perceived cost savings, key factors like contamination risks, potential repairs (e.g., wiring, HVAC, insulation), and the time required are often overlooked.
Unfortunately, many homeowners also underestimate the complexity of rodent infestations, leading to common mistakes that can worsen the problem and prolong the process.
Whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional, remember: when the temperature drops, rodent activity increases.
Rodents seek warm areas with a steady food supply in winter, which is why rodent control experts see their busiest seasons during fall and winter. In fact, 60% of professionals report an increase in rodent problems each year.
If you find the process overwhelming, consider reaching out to a few rodent control companies for free estimates. This will give you the benefit of a professional inspection and the opportunity to ask detailed questions about your situation without any obligation.
We hope this helps, and if you’re interested, we’re happy to answer any questions you might have.
