Your home is your sanctuary, a place where you should feel safe and comfortable. But when pests invade, they can turn that peace into stress and frustration. While some pests may be easy to spot, others are sneaky and can cause significant damage before you even realise they’re there. Knowing the early signs of a pest problem can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Here are the top five signs you have a pest problem at home and when it’s time to call a professional.
1. Strange Noises at Night
Have you ever heard scratching, scurrying, or squeaking noises in the dead of night? It’s unsettling, right? Rodents like rats and mice are nocturnal, and they love to make their homes inside your walls, attic, or even your kitchen. These noises, especially coming from within walls or ceilings, are one of the clearest indicators that pests have moved in. It’s important not to ignore these sounds, as rodents can damage electrical wiring and create serious safety hazards.
When to Call a Professional: If you hear consistent noises at night or notice droppings, it’s time to call in the experts. A pest control professional can locate the source and eliminate the problem before it escalates.
2. Droppings and Urine Stains
Finding droppings in your home is a definite sign that pests are nearby. Rodents, cockroaches, and other pests often leave behind waste as they move around your home. Droppings might be found in kitchen cupboards, attics, or basements. Rodent urine can also leave a strong, unpleasant odour that is difficult to miss.
When to Call a Professional: Even if you’ve only seen a few droppings, there are likely more pests hiding nearby. Rather than trying to manage it yourself, which can expose you to harmful bacteria, a professional can ensure your home is thoroughly treated and sanitised.
3. Nesting Materials
Pests such as rodents and birds love to build nests out of shredded paper, fabric, insulation, and other soft materials. If you find piles of nesting materials in dark corners, attics, or basements, it’s a good sign that pests are setting up shop in your home. Insects like termites and ants also create nests, but theirs are often more hidden in the walls or foundations of your home.
When to Call a Professional: Discovering a nest, or nesting materials, is a clear sign that the pest population is growing. At this point, a professional is necessary to remove the nest and assess the extent of the infestation.
4. Unexplained Damage to Furniture or Walls
Have you noticed gnaw marks on your furniture or baseboards? Or perhaps your walls have small holes or bubbling paint? Pests like termites, rodents, and even certain insects can chew through wood, drywall, and furniture. Termites, in particular, are known for causing extensive damage to the structural integrity of homes, and they often go unnoticed until the damage is severe.
When to Call a Professional: Any sign of damage to the structure of your home should prompt a call to a pest control expert. They can inspect your home for termites or other wood-destroying insects and develop a treatment plan to prevent further damage.
5. Foul or Musty Odors
Pests often leave behind distinct smells. A musty, ammonia-like odour could indicate a rodent infestation, while cockroaches leave behind an oily, musty smell. Dead pests can also cause foul odours if they have been trapped in your walls or under floorboards. If your home suddenly smells off and you can’t find the source, pests could be the culprit.
When to Call a Professional: Odors that persist or worsen over time should be investigated by a pest control professional. They can track down the source and ensure that any dead pests or waste are removed, and your home is treated to prevent further infestations.
Final Thoughts
While some pest problems may seem minor, they can quickly escalate if left unchecked. Knowing the early signs of a pest infestation can help you act fast and prevent further damage to your home. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t hesitate to call a pest control professional. At Well Done Pest Control, we’re here to help Perth homeowners stay pest-free with safe, effective, and reliable solutions. Protect your home and your peace of mind—contact us today!