Fall Pest Prep: Keeping Rodents Out Before Winter

As the crisp autumn air sets in and leaves start to fall, we’re reminded that winter is just around the corner. While many of us look forward to cozy nights by the fire and holiday gatherings, fall also marks the time when rodents like mice and rats begin their search for warm shelter — and your home is the perfect target.

Don’t wait until you hear the tell-tale scratching in the walls. Fall is the ideal time to pest-proof your home and stop unwanted guests before they move in. Here's how to keep rodents out before winter hits full force.

Why Fall Rodent Prep Matters

Rodents are more than just a nuisance. Once inside, they can:

• Chew through wires, insulation, and wood, creating fire hazards.

• Contaminate food and surfaces with droppings and urine.

• Carry diseases like hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis.

• Reproduce rapidly — a single pair of mice can produce dozens of offspring in just a few months.

Taking action in the fall means you’ll be steps ahead when temperatures drop and rodents become more desperate to find warmth.

8 Steps to Keep Rodents Out This Fall

1. Seal Entry Points

Mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime, and rats only need a gap the size of a quarter. Carefully inspect your home’s exterior for:

• Gaps around pipes and utility lines

• Cracks in the foundation

• Spaces under doors and garage entrances

• Vents, chimneys, and attic openings

Tip: Use steel wool and caulk, or hardware cloth, to block entry — rodents can chew through foam and wood, but not metal.

2. Clean Up the Yard

Rodents love cluttered outdoor spaces that provide hiding spots.

• Rake up fallen leaves and clean out gutters.

• Store firewood at least 20 feet from the house and off the ground.

• Trim shrubs and branches that touch or hang over your roof — they act as highways for pests.

3. Secure Trash and Compost

Rodents are scavengers, and food scraps are a buffet.

• Use tightly sealed trash cans with locking lids.

• Keep compost bins away from your home and turn them regularly.

• Never leave pet food outside overnight.

4. Store Food Properly Indoors

Inside your home, your pantry can be a feast if not properly protected.

• Use glass or metal containers with tight-fitting lids for dry goods.

• Don’t leave fruits, grains, or snacks out in the open.

• Regularly wipe down kitchen counters and sweep floors.

5. Declutter Basements and Attics

Rodents love to nest in quiet, undisturbed places.

• Store items in sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes.

• Keep storage areas clean and dry.

• Avoid piling clutter — more hiding spots = more rodents.

6. Check for Moisture Issues

Rodents need water as much as food.

• Fix leaking pipes, hoses, and faucets.

• Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home.

• Use dehumidifiers in damp basements or crawlspaces.

7. Set Preventive Traps

Even if you haven’t seen rodents, it’s wise to set a few traps in key areas:

• Along baseboards, behind appliances, in garages, attics, and basements.

• Use snap traps with bait like peanut butter or chocolate.

This acts as an early warning system and stops a small problem before it grows.

8. Schedule a Professional Inspection

A licensed pest control professional can identify vulnerabilities you may miss and recommend a custom prevention plan.

They’ll also check for signs of current infestations — gnaw marks, droppings, or nesting materials — and can treat problem areas before winter sets in.

Final Thoughts

Rodent infestations are easier to prevent than eliminate. Taking a proactive approach in the fall saves time, money, and stress down the road. With a little preparation now, you can enjoy a rodent-free winter and keep your home safe and secure.

Don't wait for the first frost — start your fall pest prep today!