Job Overview
Location: Markham, Ontario
Structure: Detached two story home with attached garage
Problem: Long-standing exterior rat activity
Service: Rats treatment
Visits: 3
Summary
Our team at Pest Control Markham attended a detached residential property to address ongoing exterior rat activity. The work involved exterior inspections, installation and maintenance of tamper-resistant bait stations, and later targeted exclusion at vulnerable wall vents. Over multiple visits, the exterior rat population was managed with no evidence of rats entering the home.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached two-story home with an attached garage. The exterior includes foundation walls, gravel perimeter areas, and multiple plastic wall vents at ground level. These features can attract rodents seeking shelter and warmth, particularly during colder months.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported persistent rat activity around the exterior of the home. The issue had been present for an extended period and was a concern due to the potential risk of rodents accessing the structure.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial exterior inspection, conditions consistent with exterior rat activity were observed around the foundation. Ground-level areas and wall penetrations were assessed for potential access points. Plastic wall vents were identified as vulnerable components that could be exploited by rodents if left unprotected.
Cause Analysis
Exterior rat activity was likely sustained by accessible shelter points along the foundation and nearby ground cover. Ground-level wall vents and gaps commonly provide investigation points for rats moving along building perimeters. Long-term exterior activity without full exclusion can allow a population to persist outside even if interior access is not achieved.
Treatment / Removal
Exterior rat control was carried out by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines. Two large, weighted, tamper-resistant bait stations were installed along the exterior to address the outdoor rat population. Stations were serviced and monitored during follow-up visits as part of ongoing exterior treatment.
Exclusion & Repairs
After the initial service, the homeowner proceeded with limited exclusion work. Two accessible plastic wall vents were reinforced with galvanized steel cages securely fastened to the masonry. These cages were installed to prevent rodents from chewing through or entering via the vent openings while maintaining proper airflow.
Outcome & Confirmation
Across continued visits and ongoing exterior treatments, no signs of rat entry into the home were reported or observed. Exterior activity has been managed through routine servicing of bait stations. Additional exclusion, including deck-related areas, was recommended but not undertaken. The treated vents remained intact, and no further vulnerabilities were identified at those locations.
Technician Notes
Dylan conducted the exterior inspections, installed and serviced the exterior bait stations, and completed the wall vent screening. Photos show tamper-resistant bait stations with rodent feeding activity present during servicing, as well as wall vents before and after installation of galvanized steel protective cages.
This work was completed by our Markham Pest control team. For Pest control inquiries in Markham, contact 647-496-5755.