Top 10 Signs You Have a Pest Infestation (and How to Act Fast)

Finding pests in your home or business can be alarming. Unfortunately, by the time you spot a pest, there’s often more going on beneath the surface. Pests like rodents, cockroaches, ants, and termites are skilled at hiding and can multiply quickly if left untreated. Knowing the signs of a pest infestation is the first step toward protecting your property and health. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 signs that pests may have invaded your space—and what to do about it!

1. Droppings and Urine Stains

One of the clearest indicators of a pest problem is finding droppings. Rodents like mice and rats leave behind small, pellet-like droppings, while insects like cockroaches may leave smaller, coffee-ground-like spots. You might also notice urine stains in areas where pests frequent, such as under sinks, along baseboards, or in the pantry.

How to Act: Wear gloves and use a disinfectant to clean the area thoroughly. Droppings can carry diseases, so if you notice frequent occurrences, call a pest control professional immediately.

2. Gnaw Marks and Holes

Rodents, in particular, are notorious for chewing on almost anything. They’ll gnaw on electrical wires, furniture, walls, and even food packaging. If you find chew marks, holes, or shredded materials around your property, it’s a sign that rodents or other pests may be active.

How to Act: Inspect the areas with chew marks and try to locate entry points. Seal off gaps, especially around doors, windows, and pipes, to keep pests from entering.

3. Grease Trails and Smear Marks

Rodents have greasy fur that leaves smudges along the walls, baseboards, and floors they frequent. These marks usually appear as dark, greasy smudges in areas where they repeatedly pass.

How to Act: Clean up grease marks and inspect nearby areas for any entry points. If you continue to see these trails, it’s time to contact a pest control expert.

4. Unusual Sounds

If you hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds coming from your walls, ceiling, or attic, you may have rodents or other pests hiding out. Rodents and other small animals are often most active at night, so you’re more likely to hear them in the evenings.

How to Act: Listen closely to identify where the sounds are coming from. Avoid sealing entry points until you’ve identified the pests and their nests, as sealing them inside can cause more issues. Seek help from a pest control professional.

5. Nesting Evidence

Rodents and insects build nests in hidden areas such as attics, basements, or wall cavities. These nests are often made from shredded paper, insulation, and fabric. Finding one usually indicates a larger pest problem nearby.

How to Act: Wear gloves and a mask, and carefully remove any nests if you’re comfortable doing so. Be sure to inspect the surrounding area for any signs of more nests, and call in a pest control professional for a full inspection.

6. Discarded Wings or Exoskeletons

Finding piles of insect wings or exoskeletons, especially near windowsills or doors, is a strong sign of an infestation. Termites, ants, and certain beetles shed their wings or exoskeletons as they grow, leaving behind these remnants.

How to Act: Carefully collect and discard the remains. Inspect nearby wood structures for any visible damage and consult a pest control professional if you suspect termites.

7. Visible Structural Damage

If you notice structural damage like chewed wires, gnawed wood, or damaged furniture, pests may be at work. Termites, rodents, and carpenter ants are some of the worst culprits, and they can cause costly damage if not addressed quickly.

How to Act: Inspect all affected areas and document the damage. Some pests, like termites, require immediate professional intervention to avoid serious damage.

8. Foul Odors

An unusual, musty, or foul odor can be a sign of a pest infestation. The smell could come from pest droppings, urine, or decomposing animals. Rodents, cockroaches, and other pests often leave behind a distinct, unpleasant smell.

How to Act: Identify the area where the odor is strongest and look for other signs of pest activity. Strong, persistent odors should be checked by a pest control professional.

9. Tracks or Footprints

Pests can leave tracks in dusty areas like basements, attics, and behind appliances. Rats and mice, for instance, might leave behind visible footprints or tail marks.

How to Act: Sweep the area and see if new tracks appear in the following days. If they do, it’s likely you have an active infestation and should seek help from a pest control professional.

10. Dead Bugs Indoors

Finding dead insects on your windowsill or near entryways could mean there are more nearby. It’s especially concerning if you frequently find the same type of bug, as this could indicate a nest within your home.

How to Act: Remove any dead bugs and inspect windows, door frames, and other entry points. Regularly finding dead bugs in your home often warrants a pest control consultation.

Acting Fast: Why Early Intervention Matters

Pest infestations can lead to serious health risks and property damage. Rodents and insects can carry diseases, contaminate food, and cause allergic reactions. Termites alone cause billions of dollars in damage each year!

By recognizing these signs early and acting promptly, you can prevent a minor issue from turning into a costly problem. If you suspect an infestation, a professional pest control service like First Class Pest Solutions can provide a thorough inspection, targeted treatment, and advice on keeping your property pest-free.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with pests can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At First Class Pest Solutions, we’re committed to providing efficient and safe pest control services tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and reclaim your home from unwanted pests!