Table of Contents
Job Overview
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Semi-attached two-storey house
Problem: Rat activity reported on both the exterior and interior of the home
Service: Rat control, interior trapping, exterior baiting, full exclusion
Visits: 2
Summary
We were called to address ongoing rat activity affecting both the exterior and interior of a semi-detached residential property. Our team completed a full inspection, implemented licensed rodent control measures, and carried out extensive exclusion work to eliminate entry points. Follow-up confirmed the issue was resolved with no further interior activity reported.
Background / Property Context
The property is a semi-attached, two-storey house with multiple exterior features that can be vulnerable to rodent entry, including foundation gaps, siding transitions, wall vents, and deck structures. Utility lines and vents were present along the foundation, creating additional access opportunities if not properly sealed.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported visible rat activity outside the home and signs of rodents inside, including noises and evidence consistent with nesting and droppings. They were concerned about ongoing access points and wanted both active control and long-term prevention.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial visit, active rat signs were confirmed on the exterior and interior. Inspection identified multiple entry points at foundation gaps, along siding, around wall vents, beneath deck structures, and through drywall voids. Interior areas showed evidence consistent with nesting material and rodent droppings.
Photos from the inspection show open foundation gaps beneath deck boards, compromised wall vent covers, disturbed soil along the foundation, and interior voids with debris consistent with rodent use.
Cause Analysis
Rats were accessing the structure through a combination of ground-level foundation gaps, unprotected wall vents, and construction transitions along siding and decking. These areas provided shelter and direct access into wall cavities and interior spaces. Ongoing exterior activity increased pressure on the structure, leading to interior entry once vulnerabilities were found.
Treatment / Removal
All pest control measures were carried out by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
Exterior control included the placement of large, weighted, tamper-resistant bait stations containing commercial-grade rodenticide in areas of high activity to address the exterior population. Interior control involved installing large, commercial-grade baited snap traps in identified high-activity zones.
Interior areas affected by droppings were HEPA-vacuumed and disinfected to reduce contamination.
Exclusion & Repairs
Following inspection approval, exclusion work was completed during the first visit, including:
- Installation of a rat one-way door at a front foundation gap
- Sealing approximately twelve feet of foundation gaps using galvanized steel mesh
- Excluding approximately fifteen feet of deck-related openings with galvanized steel mesh
- Securing two wall vents with galvanized steel vent cages
- Sealing approximately thirty feet of siding gaps using steel mesh and caulking where appropriate
- Removal of compromised drywall sections and sealing approximately twelve feet of related openings with galvanized steel mesh
- Installation of two additional rat one-way doors at an interior drywall exclusion point and at the rear deck area
Photos document galvanized steel screening installed along foundation edges, around utility penetrations, and at vent openings, as well as one-way doors positioned at confirmed entry locations.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the second visit, the homeowner reported no further rat activity inside the home. Our technician inspected all exclusion areas, confirmed integrity, and removed the rat one-way doors. Exterior bait stations remained in place as part of the ongoing control strategy. No additional interior rodent issues have been reported since completion.
Technician Notes
Richard confirmed active rat pressure on the initial visit and coordinated control and exclusion work on site. All identified entry points were addressed during the first visit, allowing for effective interior resolution before the follow-up. Final inspection confirmed successful exclusion and cessation of interior activity.
This work was completed by our Toronto pest control team. For pest control inquiries in Toronto, contact 647-496-2211.