As a property owner, you may think that it’s just you and your family living in your home – but maybe not! Many of us will have to deal with pesky pets and irritating infestations at some point during home ownership. What are the signs that you are sharing your space with other animals?

There are many different signs to suggest that you’ve got a pest problem, which will vary depending on what you’re dealing with. These are some of the items you will need to keep an eye on, and what you can do to solve the issue.

You Hear Noises

Pests may be quiet, but they are by no means silent. They are usually most active at night, so this would be a good time for you to listen for them if you have any suspicions. You could put an ear up against the walls of your home so you can hear anything in the cavities – which is one of the places pests may hide. You should also do the same with your ceilings and anywhere with crawl spaces: if you hear a pitter-patter sound, that will let you know you have pests in your property.

There Are Nasty Smells

Kitchens and basements are high-risk areas for pests so, if you smell a musky odor when in these areas, then you should investigate. This smell will have a hint of ammonia and will be like that of a rabbit hutch that hasn’t been cleaned in a while – it will be a fragrance that won’t be pleasant. Finding the source of the smell will usually lead you to other evidence of pests in your home.

You’ll See Holes and Gnaw Marks

If you find small holes in your floors and walls, or in and around your property, then there’s a possibility of an infestation. Pests such as rats will like to gnaw on things, so finding gnaw marks is another sign of a potential problem. Also, be on the lookout for items such as electrical wires that have been chewed, and other things that might have been destroyed by rats or other rodents.

You Find Unusual Holes or Piles of Sawdust

If you find any powdery residue or sawdust near any woodwork in your home (e.g., windowsills), then this suggests a wood-destroying pest. Other signs can include loose trim, sagging floors, blistered or wavy wood, and mud tubes.

This may be an indication of termites and they can drastically affect the structure of your building. Check your wood for sagging, holes, and any hollow sounds, as well as termite wings and tan-colored fecal pellets.

You Discover Droppings

This is one of the clearest ways to suggest that your property is at home to pests, particularly mice and rats. If this is the case, then you may wish to get in contact with a pest control company such as Moxie Pest Control. You can then find out what services are best suited to the type of pest infestation you may have, so you can decide which option is best for you.