Early Signs of a Pest Problem in Your Home

Most common household pests are naturally more active at night and stay out of sight during the day, especially in the early stages of an infestation. Recognizing the quieter, indirect signs makes it possible to act before the problem grows.

Droppings or shed skins

Small droppings near food storage, along skirting boards, or in cabinets — or shed skins from insects like cockroaches — are one of the clearest indirect signs of activity, even without seeing the pest itself.

An unusual, persistent smell

A musty or oily odor in cabinets or along walls can indicate cockroach activity, while a stale, sweetish smell in a specific area sometimes points to rodents.

Small holes, gnaw marks, or damaged packaging

Chewed food packaging, small holes in skirting or furniture, or fine sawdust-like material near wooden fittings are all signs worth investigating rather than dismissing.

Noises at night

Faint scratching or scurrying sounds in walls, ceilings, or under flooring — especially at night when the home is quiet — often means activity that isn't yet visible during the day.

• Check under sinks, behind appliances, and in cabinet corners for droppings.
• Note any unusual smell that doesn't have an obvious source.
• Look for small gnaw marks or holes in food packaging or skirting.
• Pay attention to faint sounds at night, not just daytime sightings.
• Have an inspection done early — the earlier a pest problem is caught, the simpler it is to treat.