Table of Contents
Job Overview
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Detached two storey house
Problem: Reported rat activity on the exterior and interior of the home
Service: Rat control and exclusion
Visits: 2
Summary
We attended a detached two-storey home in Toronto following reports of rat activity both outside and inside the structure. Our team confirmed active rodent presence, completed interior and exterior control measures, and performed targeted exclusion work to address identified entry points. Follow-up confirmed no further interior activity.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached residential home with foundation-level windows, exterior cladding transitions, and landscaped areas along the perimeter. Vegetation, soil, and leaf debris were present near the foundation, creating concealed conditions along the lower wall sections.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported ongoing rat sightings and signs of activity on the exterior, along with evidence of rats entering the interior of the home.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, active rat signs were confirmed. Multiple vulnerabilities were observed along the foundation and around window and wall junctions. These included gaps at foundation-level openings and areas where building materials met, which are common access points for rodents. Interior areas with reported activity were assessed to determine appropriate trap placement.
Cause Analysis
Rats were able to access the structure due to gaps and voids along the foundation and around window and wall interfaces. Ground-level conditions and exterior landscaping provided cover and travel routes, allowing rodents to approach and exploit these openings. Once access was established, the structure offered shelter conducive to continued activity.
Treatment / Removal
All rodent control work was completed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
On the first visit, large weighted tamper-resistant bait stations containing commercial-grade rodenticide were installed on the exterior in areas of high activity to reduce the exterior population. Inside the home, large commercial-grade baited snap traps were placed in locations where activity was identified.
A carpenter ant treatment was also performed during this visit, based on observed conditions.
Exclusion & Repairs
Following the inspection, the homeowner approved exclusion work on site. A rat one-way door was installed at the primary entry point to allow rodents to exit without re-entering. Approximately ten feet of exclusion was completed using galvanized steel mesh along vulnerable foundation areas. An additional five feet around windows and doors was sealed using a combination of caulking and galvanized steel mesh to reinforce these transitions.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the second visit, the homeowner reported no further rat activity inside the home. The exclusion work was inspected and confirmed intact, and both rat one-way doors were removed. Ongoing exterior control measures remained in place. No additional interior rodent issues were reported following completion of the work.
Technician Notes
The initial inspection, treatment, and exclusion were completed by Richard. Exterior photos show foundation-level gaps, window well areas, and wall junctions prior to sealing, as well as galvanized steel mesh installed along the lower perimeter after exclusion. Final inspection confirmed that identified entry points were secured and no new activity was present.
This work was completed by our Toronto pest control team. For pest control inquiries in Toronto, contact 647-496-2211.