1. Exterior Areas:
The first step in a monthly pest control checklist should be to inspect all exterior areas of the property for signs of pests. This includes looking around the perimeter of the building or property, around windows and doors, as well as in any outdoor spaces such as patios, decks, gardens, or other areas that may be prone to pest infestations. After inspecting the exterior, it is important to also inspect all interior areas of the property. This should include any basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Pay particular attention to dark and damp areas such as these as they can be a common breeding ground for pests.
2. Building Structure:
The next step is to inspect the building structure for any signs of pests or damage that may have been caused by pests. This includes looking in all areas of the building and paying particular attention to potential entry points such as cracks, holes, vents, plumbing lines, and utility access points. Make sure to document any evidence of pest activity or damage found during this inspection.
3. Building Interior:
After inspecting the building’s exterior, it is important to move inside and check all interior rooms for signs of pests. Inspections should include closets, pantries, bathrooms and kitchens as these are typically areas where pests like to hide. It is also important to note any food sources that could be access points for pests like open garbage cans, pet food dishes, and bird feeders.
4. Evidence of Pests:
If at any point during the inspection you find evidence that pests are present in the home or business, it is important to document this information and contact a professional pest control service as soon as possible. Common signs of an infestation include droppings, tracks, chewed-up materials, nests, and dead insects.
5. Check for Moisture:
Moisture sources can attract pests such as mosquitos or cockroaches into your property so it is important to inspect all areas of the building for any potential water leaks or accumulation of standing water outside. If there are standing water sources outside the building, it is important to remove them as soon as possible.
6. Other Information:
Finally, other information that should be added to a monthly pest control checklist includes checking for any signs of wood damage caused by termites or carpenter ants, checking for rodent droppings in areas such as attics, basements and crawl spaces, looking in dark corners and crevices for nesting materials from pests like clothes moths or bed bugs, and spraying insecticides near windows, doors and other potential entry points.