Selling Your Home - Is your Home Pest Proof?

When selling or purchasing a new home, many people do not think ahead to get a pest inspection! It rarely comes up until there is a huge ugly problem staring us in the face. If you are preparing to sell, below are some great tips for preventing household pests, pest infestations and the potentially dangerous health and property threats they pose.

Interior

• Seal all cracks and holes on the inside of the home including entry points for pipes.
• Keep baths and showers well ventilated and dry.
• Seal outlets, switch plates and baseboards, as some insects will travel through these.
• Keep all foods properly stored, including pet foods. Use plastic containers or plastic bags.
• Maintain good housekeeping.
• Dispose of vacuum bags regularly.
• Replace air handling filters regularly.

Exterior

• Keep doors closed or properly screened.
• Repair torn screening.
• Seal all cracks and holes around the outside of the home including entry points for utilities and pipes.
• Keep tree branches and shrubbery well trimmed and away from the house.
• Keep attics and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry.
• Store garbage in sealed containers and dispose of it regularly.
• Repair fascia and soffits, if rotted, as some insects are drawn to deteriorating wood.
• Replace weather-stripping around doors and windows.
• Store fire wood at least 20 feet away from the house and five inches off the ground.

Homeowners who choose not to tackle these activities may wish to hire a professional pest control firm. Many firms are beginning to offer pest proofing in an addition to their other services.