Redfin collaborated with Pestcom pest control to share expert tips that can help from their team members Joseph L. Kondor and J. Kenny Daily. Whether you own one home in Columbus, Ohio or rent one townhome in Tampa, FLKeeping an eye on things can save a lot of trouble.
Look for the little things that people often miss
Subtle physical changes around your home
Many early signals are so subtle that most people walk right past them. According to Joseph L. Kondor of Pestcom Pest Management, “One thing people often miss is fine sand or soil pushing up through cracks in concrete. That usually means sidewalk ants are tunneling underneath.” These small piles of dirt often go unnoticed, especially in driveways and along walkways.
Feces and small spots
Kondor also points out that “small mouse droppings are another early sign, especially in kitchens, pantries or garages.” Even a few droppings can indicate that rodents have already found a safe place to explore. Additionally, “small black spots that look like ground pepper on walls, around windows, or in cabinets” may actually be feces or stains left by flies or cockroaches.
Webs and nests that seem harmless
Similarly, J. Kenny Daily explains that people often overlook spider webs and nests. “Spider webs on eaves, in garage corners and around windows often indicate that there is a food source nearby,” he says. He adds that “small honeycomb-style nests under ledges, on eaves or along fence lines indicate wasp activity.” These signs may seem harmless at first, but if ignored, they could be the first stage of an ongoing pest infestation.
Read >> How to get rid of cockroaches in your apartment or house
Focus on the areas where activity is most likely to occur
High-risk areas in the home
When checking your home, some areas require extra attention. Inside, Kondor explains, “the kitchen and garage are usually active first because they provide food, shelter and easy access points.” Daily supports this, adding that areas with moisture, such as “the laundry room, the bathroom and the kitchen,” are also common problem areas.
Outside problem areas
Be sure to check outside the eaves and roofline. Kondor notes that they “often reveal the first signs, especially when spiders or wasps begin to nest.” Taking a slow walk around the outside of your home every few weeks can help you notice changes early.
Seasonal changes can bring new activity
Why timing is important
As the weather changes, pests change their behavior. In the spring, Kondor reports that “many pests become more active and start moving through the property.” Daily adds that “rain and higher temperatures increase insect activity” and that clover mites, earwigs and beetles are common during this time.
During the hot summer months, Daily warns of ‘a large increase in numbers summer pests such as wasp, hornet and yellow jacket activity. Then, as summer turns to fall, both experts agree that rodents and spiders start looking for warmth. Kondor explains that “they are then more likely to move indoors,” which can quickly lead to serious infestations if no action is taken.
Seasonal pest activity at a glance
| Season | What to pay attention to |
|---|---|
| Early spring | Warming temperatures and rain increase activity. Clover mites, earwigs and beetles are becoming increasingly common. |
| Summer | A large increase in the activity of wasps, hornets and yellow jackets due to high temperatures. |
| Late summer and autumn | Rodents and spiders look for warmth and may move indoors. |
| Winter | Rodents seek a warm shelter in and around homes. |
Simple DIY checks that make a big difference
Quick indoor inspections
You don’t need expensive tools to get started. Kondor recommends “quick inspections under sinks, in pantries, and in other food storage areas.” Perform a quick cleaning monthly and look for droppings, chew marks or unusual insect activity. He also suggests using “glue boards or sticky traps” in garages, under sinks and in corners as an early warning system.
Exterior maintenance that prevents access
- Prune trees and shrubs so that they are at least three feet away from the house
- Make sure that branches do not hang over the roof
- Make sure windows/screens fit properly and doors are properly swept.
- Check the garage door seals and bottom for holes or minor leaks.
- Ensure that sprinklers do not direct water onto the foundation; Excess moisture at the bottom of the house can attract earwigs, beetles and other pests.
- Clean up leaves, pine needles, grass clippings and other organic waste around the house.
- Keep weeds and tall grass trimmed back
- These simple tasks create fewer hiding places and entry points for pests, which directly supports long-term property protection and prevention.
When it’s time to call a professional
A timely professional pest inspection can help you spot a hidden pest before it becomes costly or dangerous. Sometimes prevention and basic checks are not enough; some situations require professional help:
- If you notice public health pests such as cockroaches, heavy flying activity or… bed bugs. Kondor emphasizes that these require expert attention.
- If you have seen rodent droppings or rodent tracks (gnawed wiring, gnaw marks, nests), especially in walls or hidden corners.
- If the signs persist even after cleanup, seal off obvious entry points and use traps. As Daily puts it, “If signs of insects or rodents appear, it’s a good idea to call a local pest professional.”
Final thoughts
For property managers and homeowners, acting quickly not only protects your property, but its long-term ownership as well value of the house and safety. By learning to recognize the early clues and making regular inspections your routine, you can prevent minor problems long before they develop into costly and stressful situations.
Early detection not only saves money; it protects your health, your tenants, and the long-term value of your property.
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