Rat Control and Exterior Entry Point Mitigation — Courtice

Job Overview

Location: Courtice, Ontario
Structure: Two-story, detached brick house with attached front garage
Problem: Rat activity reported inside the home
Service: Rat treatment with exterior baiting and entry point mitigation
Visits: 1

Summary

The customer reported mouse activity in their home in Courtice. Our team completed a single-visit rat control service at a residential property in Courtice. Interior trapping and exterior baiting were combined with selective sealing of exterior gaps and installation of a one-way door at the primary entry point. No follow-up visits were required based on observed results and the scope of work completed.

Background / Property Context

The property is a two-story detached home with brick construction on the lower level and siding above. Multiple transition points between brick, siding, soffit, and deck structures were present, creating potential access routes for rodents.

Customer Concern

The homeowner reported long-standing rodent activity inside the house. The issue had persisted for several years, with noises and signs consistent with rats. Full exterior exclusion had been discussed previously but was not part of the requested service at this time.

Inspection & Findings

Inspection confirmed rat activity and identified several exterior vulnerabilities. Multiple siding gaps were observed along the exterior walls, particularly at corner transitions and near soffit lines. One opening was identified as the primary access point being actively used by rats. Photos show bait stations placed at the fence line, sealed siding gaps with mesh and fasteners, and a one-way door installed over an exterior opening. Additional images show sealed trim and soffit junctions and inspection of wall vent and deck-adjacent areas.

Cause Analysis

The infestation was attributed to accessible exterior gaps at siding and trim junctions, combined with long-term exposure to exterior rodent pressure. The structure’s design includes multiple transition points that can open over time due to settling and weathering. These conditions allowed rats to repeatedly access the interior.

Treatment / Removal

Interior control was completed using large commercial-grade baited snap traps placed in areas of high activity. This approach was used to reduce the risk of rodents dying within wall voids. On the exterior, large weighted tamper-resistant bait stations containing commercial-grade rodenticide were installed to address the surrounding rat population. All pest control work involving rodenticides was performed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines. Technician Grant completed the treatment during the initial visit.

Exclusion & Repairs

Five exterior siding gaps were identified during inspection. Four of these openings were sealed using appropriate materials. The main entry point was fitted with a rodent one-way door, allowing rats to exit the structure while preventing re-entry. Full exclusion of all potential entry points was discussed but not undertaken beyond the areas noted above.

Outcome & Confirmation

The combined interior trapping, exterior baiting, and targeted entry point mitigation resolved the active interior issue. Based on the scope of work completed and conditions observed at the time of service, no additional visits were scheduled.

Technician Notes

Exterior bait stations were placed in areas of visible activity along the perimeter. Sealing work focused on the most active and accessible gaps. One-way door installation was completed at the primary access point to facilitate controlled exit from the structure.