Table of Contents
Job Overview
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-story house
Problem: Reported rat activity on the exterior and interior of the home
Service: Rat control, interior trapping, exterior baiting, and exclusion
Visits: Two
Summary
We attended a detached two-story home in Toronto following reports of ongoing rat activity both inside and outside the structure. Our team confirmed active rodent presence, implemented an integrated control approach, and completed exterior exclusion to address entry points. Follow-up inspection confirmed resolution of interior activity.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached residential home with exterior features including a deck and ground-level window areas. These features can create concealed access points along the foundation line when gaps or deteriorated materials are present.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported seeing rats on the exterior of the house and experiencing activity inside the home. The concern included ongoing movement and signs of rodents accessing the structure.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial visit, our technician confirmed active rat activity. Exterior inspection identified multiple vulnerable areas along the deck and a window entry point consistent with rodent access. Interior inspection identified locations suitable for trapping based on observed activity patterns. Conditions along the foundation appeared to allow burrowing and concealed travel routes.
Photos from the inspection show exposed soil along the foundation, gaps at structural transitions, and areas where screening and mesh were required to restrict access. Interior photos show trap placement in concealed areas consistent with rodent movement.
Cause Analysis
Rats commonly exploit gaps at ground level, especially around decks and window openings where structural transitions occur. Soil erosion and aging exterior materials can create entry points that allow rodents to move between exterior harborage and interior spaces. Once established outside, consistent access increases the likelihood of interior activity.
Treatment / Removal
All pest control work was performed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
During the first visit, we implemented a combined control strategy. Large weighted, tamper-proof exterior bait stations containing commercial-grade rodenticide were installed in areas of high exterior activity to address the larger population. Inside the home, large commercial-grade baited snap traps were installed in areas of confirmed activity.
An exterior exclusion inspection was completed during the same visit. The homeowner approved the recommended exclusion work on site. Technician Richard completed the initial setup and confirmed placement and security of all control devices.
Exclusion & Repairs
Exclusion work included the installation of two rat one-way doors at the primary entry points being used, including access through the deck area and a window opening. Approximately twenty-two feet of deck exclusion and trenching was completed using galvanized steel mesh to prevent burrowing and re-entry. An additional exterior rodent bait station was installed to reinforce perimeter control.
A carpenter ant treatment was also completed during the first visit as a separate service.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the second visit, the homeowner reported no further rat activity inside the home. Our technician inspected all exclusion work and confirmed it remained intact. Both rat one-way doors were removed after confirming no ongoing activity. Exterior bait stations were left in place as part of continued exterior control. No interior rodent issues have been reported since the work was completed.
Technician Notes
Richard confirmed active rat presence on the initial inspection and completed both control and exclusion work as approved. Follow-up inspection verified successful exclusion, no interior activity, and proper completion of the service plan.
This work was completed by our Toronto pest control team. For pest control inquiries in Toronto, contact 647-496-2211.