Table of Contents
Job Overview
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Detached three-storey Victorian century home
Problem: Rat activity reported on the exterior with noise and movement inside wall cavities
Service: Rats – exterior control and extensive foundation exclusion
Visits: 3
Summary
Our team addressed ongoing rat activity at a detached Victorian home by combining exterior population control with structural exclusion. Multiple foundation gaps along the rear of the property were identified as active entry points. A staged approach was used to safely remove rats from the structure and permanently block re-entry.
Background / Property Context
The property is an older Victorian-era home with a poured concrete foundation and mature landscaping close to the exterior walls. Age-related settling and soil contact along the rear foundation created conditions conducive to rodent access.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported seeing rats around the exterior and hearing activity inside the walls. There was concern about ongoing access through the foundation and the potential for continued interior infestation.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, Richard conducted a full exterior assessment focusing on foundation lines and utility penetrations. Multiple gaps were observed along approximately sixteen feet of the rear foundation wall. Evidence of rodent travel was noted at ground level near these openings. Interior reports were consistent with rats moving within wall voids.
Cause Analysis
Rats commonly exploit gaps at ground-to-foundation interfaces, particularly on older homes where soil grade meets aging concrete. Dense vegetation and undisturbed soil along the rear wall provided cover and burrowing opportunities. Once established, rats were able to move between the exterior and interior wall cavities through these openings.
Treatment / Removal
Exterior control measures were implemented using large, weighted, tamper-resistant bait stations placed in areas of confirmed activity. Interior control relied on commercial-grade baited snap traps to prevent rodents from dying inside wall cavities. All pest control work was carried out by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
Exclusion & Repairs
Following approval, extensive exclusion work was completed along the affected rear foundation. A trenching method was used across the sixteen-foot section: galvanized steel mesh was secured to the base of the foundation, buried approximately one foot down and extended outward to prevent future burrowing. A one-way rodent door was installed over an active entry point to allow rats to exit the structure while preventing re-entry.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the final visit, the homeowner reported no further interior activity. The one-way door was removed after confirming evacuation, and the trenched area was sealed and restored. A follow-up inspection confirmed the exclusion remained intact with no signs of renewed rat activity.
Technician Notes
- Exterior foundation gaps visible at grade along rear wall.
- Trenching and galvanized screening installed to block burrowing access.
- One-way door removed on final visit after no further activity reported.
- No access limitations encountered during service.
Contact us at 647-496-2211 if you have any rodent or pest issues on your property.