Blocking Holes Too Early in Rodent Control Is a Big Mistake

One of the most common mistakes in rodent control is when companies block holes before eradicating the infestation. It may sound like a good idea, but in reality, it often makes the problem worse.

1. Why You Should Wait Before Blocking

If rodents are still inside and the holes are sealed too soon, they become trapped in walls, under floors, or inside cavity voids. The result is:

More damage as rodents chew new escape routes.

Scratching and noise inside walls and ceilings.

Rodents dying indoors, which causes strong and unpleasant smells.

👉 The correct method:

First eradicate the infestation (normally 3–14 days).

Only then block all entry points to stop them coming back.

2. What Proper Proofing Really Means

Many companies say they “do proofing,” but in reality they just spray foam into gaps. This is not proper proofing. Rodents chew through foam in minutes.

✅ Real proofing means:

Blocking every gap, big or small, properly with wire wool, mesh, or cement.

Checking inside and outside the property, because rodents find even the tiniest holes.

Covering brick air vents with professional vent covers. This is one of the biggest mistakes I see – when vents are left open, they act like doors for mice and even insects to enter the cavity walls. With proper vent covers, air still flows, but pests are kept out.

3. Proper Inspection and Treatment

Before proofing, a professional technician should carry out a full inspection:

Find the exact points where rodents are coming in.

Place poison/bait only where there is activity.

Advise you about the risks if a rodent dies indoors.

4. What If a Rodent Dies Inside?

Some companies tell customers:

> “Don’t worry, they will always die outside.”

This is false. Rodents often die inside cavity walls, under floors, or behind kitchen skirting. Other companies say:

> “The smell will go away in 2–3 weeks.”

Yes, the body decomposes, but in the meantime the smell can be unbearable.

A professional company should:

Warn you about this risk.

Offer odour-control treatments if it happens.

Sanitize the affected area.

5. Sanitisation and Safety

Another step many companies ignore is cleaning rodent droppings. Droppings carry bacteria and can cause health problems.

👉 At my company, we don’t stop at proofing. We also use a fogging machine to sanitise and disinfect the entire area where rodents have been active. This kills bacteria, neutralises odours, and refreshes the home so it’s safe for your family.

6. Why Customers Call Me After Other Companies

I’m often called after both cheap and even very expensive companies fail to do the job correctly. Customers complain about:

Bad smells after rodents died indoors.

Foam-only “proofing” that never lasted.

Brick vents left open, letting pests return.

No sanitisation after droppings were left behind.

In these cases, the customer ends up paying twice—once to the wrong company, and again for me to finish the job properly.

✅ My Advice

Be patient – eradicate first, proof second.

Always ask: “Where exactly are rodents entering?”

Always ask: “What if they die indoors—do you cover that?”

Make sure proofing includes skirting removal, sealing holes inside and outside, and covering vents.

Insist on sanitisation after droppings are removed.

Rodent control done properly is not just about laying poison. It’s about inspection, treatment, proofing, and sanitising. Only when all four steps are done will your home be truly rodent-free, safe, and clean.

📞 Pest Control RAF SERV LTD

✔️ 24/7 Professional Pest Control Across London

✔️ Rats • Mice • Bed Bugs • Wasps • Pigeons • Foxes

✔️ Full Treatment • Proofing • Sanitisation

📱 Call/Text/WhatsApp: 07586 072 087