Sidney, BC · Saanich Peninsula · Greater Victoria

How to Reduce Rodent Entry Points Around a Home

Category: Rodents

Introduction

Rats and mice can enter homes through small openings around foundations, vents, garage doors, crawlspaces, siding, utility lines, and exterior doors. Once inside, they may move through walls, attics, garages, kitchens, storage rooms, and crawlspaces.

Reducing entry points is one of the most important parts of rodent prevention.

Start with the Exterior

Walk around the outside of the home and look for obvious gaps, damaged materials, or areas where rodents may have shelter.

Pay attention to foundation edges, crawlspace vents, garage doors, exterior doors, utility lines, siding and trim, deck connections, sheds and storage areas, and vegetation touching the structure.

Check Crawlspace Vents

Damaged or loose crawlspace vent screens can provide access. Check for gaps, corrosion, broken mesh, or areas where the vent no longer fits tightly.

Crawlspaces are common rodent activity areas because they offer shelter and hidden travel routes.

Look at Garage Doors

Gaps under garage doors or damaged weatherstripping can allow rodents to enter. Garages may also contain pet food, bird seed, stored items, or clutter that supports activity.

Keep food sources sealed and inspect the door edges regularly.

Inspect Utility Openings

Pipes, cables, vents, and wires often pass through exterior walls. Gaps around these openings can be used by rodents.

These areas should be sealed appropriately where practical, using materials suited to the opening and building conditions.

Reduce Exterior Shelter

Rodents often use cover to move safely around buildings. Reducing exterior shelter can make the property less attractive.

Helpful steps include:

  • Trim vegetation away from walls
  • Keep firewood away from the structure
  • Reduce clutter near foundations
  • Store materials off the ground where possible
  • Keep sheds organized
  • Remove unused debris
  • Manage compost and garbage carefully

Store Food Sources Securely

Rodent prevention is not only about sealing holes. Food sources can keep rodents close to the property.

Store these in sealed containers:

  • Pet food
  • Bird seed
  • Grass seed
  • Dry goods
  • Animal feed
  • Garbage
  • Compost where possible

When to Request Rodent Exclusion

Professional rodent exclusion may be helpful when:

  • Rodent activity continues after trapping
  • Entry points are hard to find
  • Crawlspace or garage activity is present
  • Multiple openings are suspected
  • The property has recurring rodent issues
  • Restaurants or food storage areas are affected

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