Table of Contents
Job Overview
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-storey house
Problem: Rat activity reported on both the exterior and interior of the home
Service: Rat control, exclusion, and sanitation
Visits: 7
Summary
We were called to address ongoing rat activity affecting both the exterior perimeter and interior spaces of a detached home. The service involved inspection, interior and exterior control measures, structural exclusion at the foundation, and follow-up monitoring over multiple visits to confirm resolution.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached two-storey residential structure with finished interior space at the lower level. The foundation included multiple gaps and penetrations at grade level, some partially concealed by landscaping, utilities, and interior finishes. These conditions provided potential access points for rodents.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported repeated sightings and signs of rats outside the home, along with confirmed activity inside. Concerns included noise, droppings, and the possibility of ongoing entry through the foundation.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, active rat signs were confirmed both outside and inside the structure. Exterior findings included foundation gaps and openings at grade level consistent with rodent entry. Interior inspection revealed wall void access points and areas where insulation and building materials had been disturbed. Photos show exposed foundation openings, damaged interior wall sections, and areas of accumulated debris consistent with rodent travel.
Cause Analysis
Rats were accessing the structure through gaps and deteriorated areas along the foundation. Ground-level openings, combined with nearby cover and utility penetrations, allowed repeated exterior access. Once inside, wall voids and unfinished cavities provided movement pathways and shelter.
Treatment / Removal
On the first visit, our licensed exterminator installed large, weighted, tamper-resistant bait stations on the exterior in areas of high activity to address the exterior population. Commercial-grade snap traps were installed inside the home where activity was confirmed. All pest control work was performed in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
Exclusion & Repairs
After the initial visit, the homeowner approved exclusion work. This included installation of two rat one-way doors at a front foundation gap to allow rats to exit without re-entry. Approximately 115 feet of deteriorated material was removed and sealed using galvanized steel mesh to permanently close identified entry points. Interior areas affected by droppings were HEPA-vacuumed and disinfected to reduce contamination.
Outcome & Confirmation
Across visits three through six, exterior bait stations were re-baited due to high levels of feeding, indicating continued pressure from the surrounding environment but effective interception at the perimeter. On the final visit, the homeowner reported no further rat activity inside the home. The exclusion work was inspected, both one-way doors were removed, and no new entry points were observed. The homeowner continued with exterior monitoring, with no interior rodent issues reported after completion.
Technician Notes
The work was carried out over seven visits by our technician, Richard. Follow-up inspections confirmed that the exclusion held and interior activity was resolved, while ongoing exterior control addressed environmental pressure around the property.
This work was completed by our Toronto pest control team. For pest control inquiries in Toronto, contact 647-496-2211.