Table of Contents
Job Overview
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-story house built on a rear extension with white siding
Problem: Rat activity reported on the exterior and interior of the home
Service: Exterior rat treatment with extensive exclusion
Visits: 3
Summary
We completed a multi-visit exterior rat control and exclusion service at a detached home with a rear extension. Inspection identified significant exterior activity and multiple entry points associated with soil contact and foundation gaps around the addition. The scope included exterior treatment, trenching with buried galvanized steel mesh, sealing of foundation gaps, and a one-way door to allow remaining rats to exit. A final visit confirmed no further interior activity and completion of all exclusion work.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached two-story house with a rear extension added after the original build. The extension created additional soil contact areas along the foundation, with adjacent decks, steps, and exterior equipment limiting visibility at grade in several locations.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported rat activity on both the exterior and interior of the house and initially requested an inspection focused on identifying and sealing potential entry points rather than treatment.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, our technician identified high exterior rat activity concentrated along the rear extension. Evidence indicated burrowing beneath the added structure, along with multiple foundation gaps and transitions where rats could access the interior. Given the extent of activity and access points, exterior treatment and comprehensive exclusion were recommended.
Cause Analysis
The rear extension introduced new foundation edges and soil contact that provided sheltered conditions for burrowing. Gaps at grade, combined with limited clearance around steps and exterior fixtures, allowed rats to move along the foundation undetected. These conditions supported both exterior harbourage and interior access.
Treatment / Removal
Exterior rat control was performed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines. Two large, weighted, tamper-resistant bait stations were installed on the exterior in areas of highest activity to reduce the surrounding rodent population. A one-way door was installed at an identified access point to allow rats to exit the structure while preventing re-entry.
Exclusion & Repairs
Exclusion work included trenching approximately 33 feet along the rear extension. Galvanized steel mesh was installed one foot below grade and extended six inches outward to block burrowing access. An additional 18 feet of foundation gaps were sealed using a combination of mortar, concrete, and galvanized steel mesh. After activity subsided, trenching areas were sealed over to restore grade continuity.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the final visit, the homeowner reported no further interior activity. The one-way door was removed, all exclusion areas were inspected, and no signs of renewed rat access were observed. The exterior treatment and exclusion measures remained intact, and the issue was considered resolved at the time of service completion.
Technician Notes
- Visit 1: Full exterior inspection conducted. High rat activity observed with burrowing under the rear extension and multiple entry points identified. Treatment and extensive exclusion recommended. Technician: Richard.
- Visit 2: Exterior treatment completed with two weighted tamper-resistant bait stations. Trenching and installation of buried galvanized steel mesh along the rear extension completed. Foundation gaps sealed, and a one-way door installed.
- Visit 3: No interior activity reported. One-way door removed, trenching sealed over, and exclusion inspected with no deficiencies noted.
Photo Notes
Photos show galvanized steel mesh installed at grade along foundation edges, trenching adjacent to the rear extension, and completed sealing around steps, decks, and exterior equipment. Mesh appears fastened flush to masonry and siding transitions where applicable.
Contact us at 647-496-2211 if you have any rodent or pest issues on your property.