It is commonly believed that living in a new build home would free one from any worries regarding the presence of pests. Everything is new and unblemished. However, this perception is far from the truth. Pest problems in new build homes can occur far more often than most homeowners realise. The nature of construction and disturbances in the land around it, as well as potential entryways, all present an opportunity for pests to invade your home and exhibit 10 warning signs you have a pest infestation at home.
If homeowners do not take proper precautions in time, pest invasions, ranging from mice and rats to various types of insects, can cause serious inconvenience. Understanding, are new build homes protected from pests and what draws them will be beneficial for any homeowner looking to avoid an invasion.
Why Do Newly Built Homes Suffer From Pest Infestation?
So, why do new homes get pests? Most new developments in housing involve using land that was previously covered with open fields, woodlands, or idle lands. In such situations, the site may be used by pests like rodents and insects, among others, for habitat. The disturbances caused by construction activities will force the pests to relocate to other places where they can get food and shelter.
Secondly, the new houses are likely to have some openings created on doors, windows, walls, and roofs. While these might be very small openings, they are still capable of attracting pests seeking warm shelter inside homes.
The third factor is the use of construction materials at the site. These could include wood, metal sheets, and plastics, among others, and the availability of such materials makes it easier for pests in new houses to find temporary shelters while waiting to move inside the houses.
Finally, landscaping work can be a good source of pests. Lawns, gardens, and shrubberies can create conditions ideal for the survival of pests in the surroundings.
Rodent Infestations in the Newly Built Homes
Rodent problems in new build homes are a familiar issue. The two most common types of rodents are mice and rats. These rodents are highly adaptive animals that make use of any opportunity for food and shelter.
The construction process may lead to destruction of existing nests and habitats for rodents. In such new construction pest issues, rodents will move into buildings constructed in the area.
Rodents can lead to several problems when they access a building. They chew different items such as wires, cables, insulation materials, wooden furniture, and plumbing material. Such pest infestation in new homes can cause costly repairs as well as electrical fires.
Rodents are also known carriers of bacteria and diseases. This is because the excreta of these animals is dangerous and can be harmful to people.
Some of the signs of the presence of mice and rats in new build homes include:
- Scratching sounds inside the wall or ceiling.
- Droppings of rodents in kitchens and storerooms.
- Chewed up woods, cables, and food products.
- Oily marks along the walls.
- Unpleasant odours from the nesting of the rodents.
Early detection and prompt action in managing the pest problems in new build homes are essential to prevent a small rodent influx from becoming a larger infestation.
It is also necessary to understand how to prevent pest infestation after pest treatment in case of a rodent invasion.
Other Common Pests That Infest Newly Built Houses
Whereas rodents may always be a key concern, there are other common pests in new houses that may threaten too.
Ants:
Since the soil disturbance may cause disruption among ants nests, ants might have to find a new place to build their home. A newly built property offers many opportunities for ants to thrive and answers why do new build homes attract pests.
Wasps:
New buildings usually have roofs, shed-like places, and wall cavities which can serve as ideal sites for wasps to settle. The problem with wasps can be particularly severe during warm seasons, calling for urgent pest control Hillingdon.
Spiders:
Insects attract spiders, and the closer your new property is to nature or undeveloped territory, the more spiders you will find around.
Flies:
Flies are likely to accumulate if construction debris is left around and if any landscaping materials and garbage bins are used outside. An poor waste management can surely be sufficient to reply can new houses have pest infestations?
Cockroaches:
It is less common for people in some regions to struggle with these pests; however, when they do appear, they usually gain access to homes through drainage systems, utility services, and deliveries of goods.
Fleas:
Fleas can emerge as a problem on properties where past animal activity took place or when pets are brought into the area. Fleas multiply rapidly and could prove difficult to manage if proper intervention isn’t done.
Stored Product Pests:
The pantry pests, which include moths and beetles, are some of the common pest problems in newly built homes that are capable of invading foods soon after the homeowners have moved into their new homes.
Pest Prevention Measures For Your Beloved Property
Pest problems in new build homes are always easier to prevent rather than solve after they have occurred. Homeowners may adopt certain new build home pest control measures of preventing pests activities.
1. Close All Openings:
A thorough inspection of all entrances such as around doors and windows, utility pipes, and vents is vital in preventing pests in new build properties. Covering up these openings will deny pests access into your house.
2. Maintaining Cleanliness:
Cleanliness in kitchens, dining rooms, and any other surface used for preparing foods is necessary. Foodstuffs should be stored in covered containers to avoid attracting pests. You may also refer to 10 must-know kitchen pest control tips for expert guidance.
3. Proper Disposal of Rubbish:
Ensure that garbage bins used have tight-fitting lids which suffice how to prevent pests in a new build home. Dispose of the garbage bins as soon as possible to avoid pests breeding within them.
4. Controlling Dampness:
Dampness attracts most of the pests. Check leaking pipes and improve the ventilation of your premises is one of the integral parts of house pest prevention tips.
5. Garden Maintenance:
Gardens should be well-trimmed with no weeds growing there. Avoid allowing any plants or shrubs to grow against your building’s outer surface are highly recommended for pest control for new homeowners.
6. Materials Storage:
Materials storage, especially when you plan to continue with your renovations or landscaping work inside and outside the building.
7. Look for Indications:
Constant checks should be made on your premises to look out for any droppings or building site pests.
8. Carry Out Pest Inspections:
Periodic pest inspections by experts like Fair Deal Pest Control can help detect hidden issues before they become serious and costly to resolve and recommend how pest control can improve your health and hygiene?
Despite being brand new and built from scratch, new buildings can be subjected to pest infestations. Pest problems in new build homes can result from disturbing their habitat during construction and easy entry through small openings. Rats, ants, wasps, spiders, and other types of pests can make themselves at home in no time if one fails to take proper measures.
Consulting the professionals will ensure a peaceful abode besides answer relevant queries like why pigeon proofing is important for commercial buildings? One is therefore able to protect oneself by taking necessary precautions to avoid any kind of pest infestation in their newly built house.