Now that winter has settled in, many critters—particularly rodents—seek out warmth and shelter. Your home, unfortunately, can provide the perfect hiding spot for these unwanted guests. While it may be cozy for them, it can lead to some serious damage to your property. If you suspect that rodents have taken up residence in your home this winter, it’s important to catch the signs early before the damage becomes extensive.

Common Signs of Rodent Damage 

Rodents, particularly mice and rats, love to chew. It’s part of how they maintain their ever-growing teeth, and unfortunately, your home is often a perfect target. One of the first signs of rodent activity is the presence of chewed items. If you notice gnaw marks on food packaging, electrical wiring, or even furniture, it’s likely that rodents are at work. They’re also known to chew through walls, baseboards, and insulation in search of food or nesting spots.

Another common sign of rodent infestation is droppings. If you find small, dark pellets near food sources, in your attic, basement, or along walls, this is a red flag. Rodents tend to leave droppings wherever they travel, especially around areas where they nest or feed.

You might also notice unusual sounds, particularly at night. Scratching, scurrying, or squeaking noises in the walls, attic, or behind cabinets are all signs that rodents could be active in your home. They tend to be nocturnal, so the sounds are often most noticeable in the quiet hours of the evening or early morning.

How Rodents Cause Damage

Rodents can wreak havoc on your home in several ways. They’ll chew through insulation, which can compromise your home’s energy efficiency and lead to higher heating costs. Their chewing also poses a fire risk, especially if they damage electrical wiring. In addition, rodents can contaminate food by chewing through packaging or leaving droppings in your pantry. They may also create nests in hidden areas, like behind walls or under floors, which can be difficult to detect until the damage becomes significant.

In addition to the physical damage they cause, rodents are notorious for carrying diseases. Their urine and droppings can carry harmful bacteria and pathogens that may pose a health risk to you and your family. The longer rodents are allowed to stay in your home, the greater the risk of these health concerns.

How to Spot Rodent Damage Early

When it comes to rodent damage, early detection is key. Keep an eye out for the following signs:

• Chew Marks: On food packaging, furniture, walls, or even wires.
• Droppings: Dark, pellet-shaped droppings, often near food sources or hidden spots like attics or basements.
• Gnawed Entry Points: Small holes in walls, baseboards, or around vents and pipes, which rodents use to enter your home.
• Nesting Materials: Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in hidden spots can indicate rodent nests.
• Strange Noises: Scratching, squeaking, or scurrying sounds, especially at night.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and reduce the risk of health hazards.

How DCS Pest Control Can Help

 Rodent problems don’t go away on their own, and DIY solutions often fail to address the root of the issue. That’s where DCS Pest Control comes in. Our experts can help identify the source of the problem, eliminate any rodents hiding in your home, and implement effective preventive measures to keep them out for good.

Don’t wait for the damage to get worse. Click here to get rid of unwanted critters and protect your home this winter and beyond.