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How to Rat Proof Your Roof

How to Rat Proof Your Roof

by | Aug 19, 2024 | Blog, Rats

With the winter chill well and truly setting in, it’s no surprise that rats are seeking refuge inside, just like the rest of us! Noisy, messy and unhygienic, rats make the most irritating houseguests, so we’ve put together 4 helpful tips for you to keep rats away from your roof all winter long.

What questions will this article answer?

Why are there rats in my roof?

Just like people, rats also feel the cold in winter, so naturally they seek refuge indoors.

With the ability to squeeze through small entry points, such as air vents, cracks and holes, they can easily set up cozy nests and breed in quiet places such as your roof space.

Once inside, it doesn’t take long for the rat colony to multiply. Female rats breed extremely quickly, so it’s best to act soon before the problem gets out of control.

How to tell if you have a rat outbreak

As nocturnal creatures, rats are generally most active when you’re fast asleep. However, there are still several ways to tell if you have a rat infestation. Here’s how:

Droppings

Black, elongated in shape, and resembling rice grains, rat droppings are typically 12-18mm long.

Noises in your roof

If you’re hearing squeaking, scurrying or even gnawing sounds above your ceiling, or in your roof and walls between dusk and dawn, it could be coming from pesky rats.

Rat nests

Though these are usually well hidden to protect their young, rat nests typically resemble a messy pile of foraged scraps such as twigs, leaves, cardboard, wood and fabric offcuts.

Unpleasant odour

If left to accumulate and decompose, particularly during an outbreak, rat droppings and urine leave behind a sour, musty smell.

Gnaw marks

With constantly growing teeth, rats keep them filed down by finding things to chew. Carefully inspect your electrical cables, conduits, timber, plaster and pipes for tell-tale bite indentations.

Greasy fur marks

If your skirtings and walls seem to need cleaning and scrubbing more often because they look scruffier, greasier, and worse for wear, this could be due to rats travelling alongside to and from their nest.

Burrow holes

Look for disturbed soil with a burrow entrance around the perimeter of your home.

Food debris

If you’re noticing more food crumbs and partially eaten food scattered around your home and yard, it could be due to hungry rats.

Worried about rats? Don’t wait. Speak to an expert today.

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8371 1277

Problems caused by a rat infestation

With a notorious reputation for being disruptive and annoying pests, rats are known to strike fear and dread in many people. Besides stress and anxiety, here are some other issues that may arise during a rat outbreak:

Spread of diseases

Rats carry a range of germs and diseases, including leptospirosis, salmonellosis, the plague and tularemia. These can be passed on to people and pets through contaminated objects and surfaces via their droppings, urine, saliva, fur and bites.

Allergies

Parasites such as ticks and fleas  living in rat fur can trigger allergic reactions.

Contamination

Rat droppings, fur and urine are unhygienic and leave a mess around a clean home.

Damage to your home

You may experience unexpected signs of damage around your home from rats gnawing on your walls, wooden structures and insulation.

Electrical disruptions

Rats gnawing at electrical cables and conduits can cause electricity short circuits and even potentially spark fires.

4 tips to stop rats from entering your roof

You can easily prevent a rat outbreak this winter by following these recommendations from our resident rat control experts:

1. Regularly inspect your roof for potential entry points

Carefully check your roof, gutters and eaves for small access points and damage. This includes vents, holes, gaps, cracks and crevices, which rats can easily flex and squeeze through.

Once you locate them, you can install chimney grates and caps, and fit weather strips around doors and windows. You can cover larger openings with a tough wire mesh, and fill others with silicone, caulk, putty and other waterproof sealants, which are easily available through hardware stores.

2. Keep your roof and gutters clean

Reduce the amount of available nesting material that accumulates on your roof by regular gutter cleaning and yard maintenance. This includes removing fallen leaves, branches and twigs, and trimming trees and vegetation so they are away from your home. Consider installing gutter guards as an added layer of protection.

3. Rat deterrent devices

Consider installing humane and weatherproof electronic and ultrasonic rat deterrent devices. Operated by motion sensors, these emit silent ultrasonic frequency waves, which confuse rats and discourage them from entering your roof.

4. Remove all sources of food and water

Keep rats away from your yard by removing fruit, vegetables and nuts in your garden, as well as pet food, bird feed and chicken feed. Ensure that all cooked food in your kitchen is covered and tightly stored away.

Get rid of the mess with property cleaning and maintenance services

At Allstate, pest control is not the only thing we’re great at. We understand that property cleaning and ongoing maintenance  play a key role in an effective long-term pest management plan.

Our team can help you to save time and hassle in working out how to protect your property from pests, and clear away the mess that they leave behind. We provide a range of convenient pest proofing and maintenance solutions for your home or business, including:

  • Gutter cleaning
  • Gutter guard installs
  • Solar panel proofing and cleaning
  • Water tank cleaning
  • Roof void cleaning
  • Pressure washing

To safeguard your home or business from future pest outbreaks, speak to a friendly Allstate consultant today.

Keep rats away for good. Get fast advice today.

or

8371 1277

Professional rat control in Adelaide

An Allstate pest technician will start by conducting a comprehensive rodent inspection of your home or business; locating entry points and rat nests, and identifying the source of the outbreak.

Then, a rat control plan will be actioned to remove nests and seal over entry points. Finally, to reduce the population of rats, we’ll use the following methods, replenishing the treatments when needed:

Chemical baits

Safely stored within tamper-proof stations, our chemical baits contain a targeted rodenticide. We’ll position these at strategic locations to discourage pesky rats from entering inside.

Physical traps

Effective in heavier infestations, rat-sized traps are positioned in highly trafficked areas to stop scurrying rats in their tracks.

For expert rat management this winter, choose Allstate

The last thing you need in cold and wet weather is a rat problem, and unfortunately at Allstate, we’ve seen it happen too many times during the winter season.

That’s why our pest technicians are on standby 24/7 to assist you with all urgent rat issues. Since 1986, we’ve provided proven and effective rat prevention and control services to residential, industrial and commercial properties all over Adelaide.

For long lasting rat protection that is covered by competitive warranty in your home or business, speak to a friendly Allstate consultant today.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277

How to Prevent Anthills in Your Garden

How to Prevent Anthills in Your Garden

by | Aug 19, 2024 | Ants, Blog

With the remarkable ability to sniff out food up to 6 metres away, hungry ants won’t hesitate to set up a new anthill once they find a great place to feed.

Avoid having ants marching their way to your home and garden by following our top tips to prevent anthills all year round.

What questions will this article answer?

Why ants are attracted to your garden

While they are still around in winter, ants are more commonly seen out and about foraging for food in the heat of an Aussie summer.

With a colony of sometimes millions to feed, ants will travel great distances to scavenge for food. They may venture 700 feet from their nest and have the ability to detect food up to 6 metres away.

This means that ants living in your area can potentially sniff out their next feed in your home and yard. With wide and varied diets depending on the species, ants will come over and help themselves to whatever sparks their appetite, and also invite the rest of the colony around to set up a new ant nest!

Ant species you’ll find in your garden

Out of over 4000 species of ants existing in Australia, there are around a handful of mainly introduced species which are considered as common pests. These include:

Black house ants

Arguably the most recognised species, black ants grow 2.5-3mm long and have a shiny black appearance, as their name suggests.

Bull ants

Packed with venom, painful bull ant bites are best avoided. Red and black in colour and growing up to 40mm in size, bull ants can become aggressive when their nests are disturbed.

Argentine ants

Considered an invasive species, Argentine ants are 2.2-2.6mm long, and light to dark brown coloured. With an aggressive nature, these ecological pests are territorial and drive away other native ants.

Carpenter ants

Built with strong jaws and having an affinity for wood, carpenter ants are notorious for tunnelling through timber, leaving behind wood shavings and causing structural damage to trees and buildings alike. They grow 3-12mm long, and can be black, dark brown or orange coloured.

Pharoah’s Ants

Drawn to warm and humid areas, Pharoah’s ants are brown and yellow coloured, grow up to 2mm long, and males have wings. They are commonly found in hospitals.

Ghost ants

Known for their pale brown, translucent legs and abdomen, ghost ants are a pint-sized nuisance at 1.3-1.5mm long. You’ll find them in areas of high moisture content.

Fire ants

With their fiery bright red copper heads, feisty fire ants are aggressive when provoked, and fierce defenders of their distinctive nests, which can be up to 40cm high. It’s important t oavoid getting painful stings from fire ants at all costs, as they can result in swollen welts and trigger allergic reactions. Worker fire ants grow up to 3-6mm long.

Odorous house ants

Emitting a pleasant coconut scent when crushed, odorous house ants are brown or black coloured, and grow up to 3.18mm long. They are often spotted in moisture-rich places, such as leaking pipes.

Stop marching ants in their tracks. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Signs you have an ant outbreak

It’s not hard to tell if these tiny terrors are trying to invade your property. Here are some clues to look for in a potential ant infestation:

  • You notice more ants, usually moving along well-defined trails
  • You spot anthills in your yard (dirt mounds with a central opening to their underground nests)
  • If you have carpenter ants you might notice piles of fine wood shavings on the floor 

Reasons to avoid an ant infestation

Here are some problems that you may experience when ants invade your home

Contamination of surfaces and food

Experts at foraging, ants travel far and wide to scavenge for food to feed the colony. Their movements will take them from rubbish bins and toilets to your kitchen and pantry. Along the way, they can pick up germs, including bacteria and viruses, contaminating many areas of your home.

Don’t forget to inspect potted plants, mulch, hay and manure for signs of fire ants.

Spread of diseases

If your family or pets come into contact with surfaces or food items that have been contaminated by germ-carrying ants, it can lead to illnesses such as gastroenteritis.

Ant bites

Some species of ants, such as bull ants and fire ants, have more potent, venomous bites, which can trigger allergic reactions. However, for most other species, ant bites only produce mild discomfort.

Damage to buildings

Carpenter ants chew through wood and timber, and cause expensive structural problems to your home.

Damage to plants in your garden

Fire ants will help themselves to fruit, vegetables and seedlings in your yard.

Avoid the sting of an ant outbreak. Get advice today.

or

8371 1277

How to prevent anthills in your garden

Once you have a few ants around your home, it doesn’t take long for more to join them. Here are some ways that you can keep anthills out of your yard for good:

Lawn maintenance

Keeping your lawn healthy and thick makes it more difficult for ants to dig through and create an underground nest. You can also rake over any anthills that you happen to spot.

Regular garden maintenance

Rotten fruit and vegetables can attract a range of pests, including ants, so dispose these promptly. Remove piles of vegetation, which make good hiding spots for anthills, and clear away trees and foliage which come into contact with your home, as they provide an easy access point.

Remove food sources

From nectar and small insects to plants, sweet and greasy foods, bread, and meat, most ants will eat almost anything. With a remarkable ability to sniff out food from many metres away, it’s best to keep food carefully covered and stored away to avoid ants helping themselves to it first. Don’t forget to empty pet food bowls as well.

Keep surfaces clean

Food spills and crumbs can also attract ants. We recommend maintaining good hygiene in dining and food preparation areas by regularly sweeping, wiping, mopping, vacuuming and disinfecting.

Practice proper waste management

Rubbish bins are a favourite for ants, so ensure that all waste is tightly sealed in sturdy bags, and bins have tight fitting lids. Keep compost piles well covered.

Home maintenance

Leaking pipes and drains provide a source of moisture, which attracts ants, so repair these quickly.

Seal off entry points to your home

Inspect your home regularly for potential access points and fill them. This includes tiny holes, gaps, cracks and crevices. Check that the window and door seals are well fitted.

Professional ant control

We use the following ant treatment methods:

Chemical baits

Laced with an insecticide that is toxic to ants, chemical baits are strategically placed at popular feeding sites to attract ants, which then carry the lethal compounds back to the rest of the colony.

Ant control dust

Consisting of diatomaceous earth, which is ground down to a fine, powdered form, ant control dust is sprinkled along the perimeters of your home, as well as hard to reach areas that carry heavy ant traffic, and around anthills.

Insecticide spray

A fast acting approach to quickly reduce the number of active ants, insecticide sprays are useful for heavy infestations. We recommend keeping your pets away from treated areas.

Choose Allstate for effective ant management

Ants are active all year around, so outbreaks can happen at any time, and the last thing you need is for a couple of ants to escalate into a whole army. That’s why Allstate is always here to help.

Since 1986, we’ve successfully managed ant outbreaks in commercial, residential and industrial settings, using innovative treatments and the latest in pest control technology.

Available 24/7 for urgent advice, our pest control services have safeguarded clients in all suburbs of Adelaide.

No matter where you are, you can count on Allstate to assist with fast, targeted ant infestation solutions at any time.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277

Your Guide To Winter Pests

Your Guide To Winter Pests

by | Jul 5, 2024 | Blog, Pests

So, pests aren’t usually a problem in winter, right? Unfortunately not. Just like people, pests such as rodents, spiders, ants, cockroaches, and silverfish look for warm places to nest and hibernate. Continue reading to learn more about how to avoid these frustrating winter pests.

What questions will this article answer?

Why pests are a problem in winter

As the mercury plummets, the cold weather makes your home a warm and safe place to shelter from the harsh elements. With the ability to squeeze through tiny access points inside your home, pests such as rodents, spiders, ants, silverfish and cockroaches can find hiding spots to nest and breed. Before you know it, you could have an outbreak on your hands, unless you act fast!

Rodents

Rodent plagues have been dreaded for centuries, and these clever pests are famous for spreading diseases and contaminating clean places by carrying germs in their fur and droppings. With constantly growing teeth, they’ll happily chew through almost anything that they encounter, from electrical cables to walls, while raiding your kitchen pantry as you sleep!

Signs of a rodent infestation

  • You notice them running around, especially after dark
  • Dark brown to black droppings shaped like rice grains
  • Scurrying, scratching and squeaking sounds above your ceiling at night
  • A musty odour
  • Partially eaten food and crumbs scattered around the floor
  • Gnaw marks on walls, doors, timber, pipes, furniture and cables

Rodent treatment

We use physical rodent traps of different sizes, with larger ones for rats and smaller ones for mice, as well as rodenticide-laced baits for long-lasting rodent management.

For fast rodent control, speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

Spiders

Often found hiding in less frequented areas, spiders weave sticky cobwebs which are both messy and unhygienic, making housekeeping a hassle. Although most are harmless, some suburban spider species such as redback and funnel web spiders have venomous bites that you’ll definitely want to avoid.

How to spot a spider problem

  • You’re seeing more spiders crawling around than usual
  • There are spider webs visible on the ceilings, walls, and corners of rooms
  • You spot spider burrows in your yard; underneath soil or leaf or compost piles
  • You notice rounded egg sacs wrapped in webbing

Spider management

We use targeted insecticide spray and control dust sprinkled into gaps and crevices to treat spider problems quickly and effectively.

Ants

Though they are more commonly seen marching in summer, ants will seek shelter in warm places such as your home to hibernate in winter. From your benchtops to your rubbish bins and toilets, ants can spread disease and contaminate food and surfaces around your home when foraging for food. They’re also known for painful bites which can trigger allergies in both pets and people alike.

Spotting an ant infestation

  • You see many ants marching along well-defined trails
  • Look for mounds of raised dirt and soil with an entry point to an underground ant nest in your yard
  • Carpenter ants can tunnel through wooden structures, leaving signs of damage such as holes as well as discarded wood shavings on the floor
  • Fire ants cause damage to plants in your garden

Ant control

At Allstate, we apply ant insecticide spray and ant control dust to affected areas, as well as chemical baits for long-term treatment.

Cockroaches

Small, fast and highly adaptable to their environment ,cockroaches scavenge for food in both clean and unsanitary places, making them masters at spreading nasty germs and diseases. They’re known to cause illnesses such as gastroenteritis, diarrhoea, cholera and dysentery.

Telltale signs of a cockroach outbreak

  • You’re noticing more cockroaches scurrying around
  • Black granular droppings
  • Black-brown egg capsules
  • Moulted skins

Cockroach treatment

At Allstate, we use a combination of cockroach insecticide, gel baits and control dust, depending on the severity of your outbreak, to make sure the problem is treated as quickly as possible.

Protect your home from cockroaches. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Silverfish

With a diet that consists of starchy or saccharide-rich household items, silverfish are the worst houseguests you could have. From grains and cereals in your pantry to fabric items, paper, timber and upholstered furniture, silverfish can live up to six years by simply surviving on your precious belongings

Signs of a silverfish infestation

  • You spot silverfish around your home, particularly at night
  • You notice holes and damage to your clothes, furniture, haberdashery and paper-based products
  • Dark, round, peppercorn-like droppings
  • Moulted skins

Silverfish control

Our pest technicians will use pesticide sprays and fumigation for severe outbreaks , and apply control dust in hard to reach spaces such as wall cavities to effectively manage a silverfish problem.

DIY tips for preventing pest outbreaks this winter

Avoiding the nuisance of a pest outbreak when the mercury drops doesn’t have to be hard. We recommend taking the following simple steps to keep the pests out, and the heat inside this winter:

  • Reduce available food sources and hiding spots
  • Remove unnecessary clutter such as boxes, stacks of paper and laundry
  • Conduct regular yard maintenance by keeping plants well-trimmed and away from your house. Dispose of fallen fruit and remove pet waste and piles of organic matter
  • Keep food tightly stored away including pet food and water bowls
  • Keep the kitchen clean by wiping away spills, grease and food crumbs. Disinfect surfaces and clear sinks
  • Keep bins and rubbish tightly sealed with well-fitting lids
  • Inspect your home for potential entry points and seal them over with gap filler, waterproof sealants, caulk or expanding foam
  • Cover rainwater tanks and floor vents, install a chimney grate or cap
  • Repair leaking taps, pipes and drains as moisture attracts pests such as cockroaches
  • Diatomaceous earth is silica-based naturally occurring powder; sprinkled around the perimeter of your home, it is effective at physically deterring insects and spiders from entering

For effective winter pest control, choose Allstate

As pests can be a nuisance all year round, there’s sometimes no way to escape an outbreak, even in the depths of winter. However, Allstate is always here to help, no matter the season.

Since 1986, we’ve grown to become one of Adelaide’s largest locally-operated pest control providers.

Available 24/7 for urgent advice, we offer comprehensive pest assessments and innovative solutions for infestations of all sizes in commercial, residential and industrial settings. All our services are covered by competitive warranties and don’t forget to ask us about finance options.

With an emphasis on using treatments that are non-toxic to children, pets and the environment, we’ll safeguard your home from pests throughout winter and beyond.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

Silverfish Proof Your Kitchen and Bathrooms

Silverfish Proof Your Kitchen and Bathrooms

by | Jul 5, 2024 | Blog, Pests

With a life span of 6 years, an attraction to high moisture areas such as bathrooms, and an appetite for kitchen pantry staples, silverfish are certainly not ideal houseguests. In this Hivemind blog, we share our top 7 tips to help you keep silverfish away from your home for good.

What questions will this article answer?

Why are silverfish in my kitchen and bathrooms?

As their name suggests, silverfish are elongated, grey, gold or brown coloured insects with a characteristic scaly appearance and long antennae. Although they rarely grow beyond 2cm long, silverfish can survive without food for months on end, and live for up to 6 years.

However, these tough insects require one key factor to survive: humidity. In your home, this means that areas containing high moisture such as your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry make for ideal nesting places.

With an appetite for sugary, starchy and fabric-based items, silverfish can easily access a smorgasbord of food sources, not just from your kitchen and bathrooms, but all around your home.

What problems can silverfish cause?

While they are thankfully not known for spreading diseases, these creepy crawlies can still cause chaos and disruption in other ways. Here’s how:

Damage to your home

Silverfish will be just as happy raiding your kitchen pantry for grains, cereals, rice and pasta as they are chewing through fabric and paper items. This includes bathroom towels and mats, as well as clothing, photos, books, timber, and even wood-based musical instruments around your home.

Food contamination

For most of us, seeing silverfish crawling around sugary and starchy pantry staples makes them seem far less appetising, and certainly unfit for human consumption.

Allergies

Silverfish droppings and moulted skins can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms in some people.

For fast silverfish control, speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

How to tell if you have a silverfish outbreak

If you’re seeing any of the following signs, your home might be in the midst of a silverfish infestation:

Frequent sightings

If you see more silverfish scurrying around, especially in the evenings, you may have a big silverfish problem brewing.

Damaged clothing and furniture

Look for unexpected and unexplained tears, rips and holes in your clothes and fabric furniture, as well as paper-based items such as books or photos.

Droppings

Resembling very small, black peppercorns, silverfish droppings can sometimes be mistaken for dust.

Moulted skins

Typically shedding their outer skins around 30 times a year, you may notice an accumulation of these delicate, translucent layers discarded throughout your home.

How to prevent silverfish in your kitchen and bathrooms

If you spot an odd silverfish lurking in your home, there’s likely to be many more hidden away in unsuspected places. Avoid the unpleasant surprise of a silverfish outbreak by following these 7 handy hints:

Tip 1: Remove all sources of moisture

Fix leaking roofs, taps, pipes and drains and reduce humidity levels inside your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry where possible. This might involve buying a dehumidifier or opening some windows. If you notice mouldy or damp areas, be sure to carefully inspect for the presence of silverfish.

Tip 2: Keep your home clean

Regular and thorough sweeping, vacuuming, dusting and mopping in less frequented and hard to reach places can assist with removing eggs. Remember to check behind and underneath furniture, and even steam clean fabric furniture and upholstery.

Tip 3: Store unused fabric and paper items away

Clothes, towels, sheets, blankets and rugs are best stowed away inside wardrobes, closets and drawers, with silverfish-deterring mothballs adding extra protection. Photo albums and books can be stacked in tightly sealed plastic bags and non-cardboard boxes.

Tip 4: Practice proper food storage

Pantry items, especially those which are starch- or sugar-rich, are best kept dry in tightly sealed containers.

Tip 5: Regular yard maintenance

Clothes, towels, sheets, blankets and rugs are best stowed away inside wardrobes, closets and drawers, with silverfish-deterring mothballs adding extra protection. Photo albums and books can be stacked in tightly sealed plastic bags and non-cardboard boxes.

Tip 6: Remove access points

Identifying and sealing over holes, gaps, cracks and crevices will make it more difficult for silverfish to enter your home.

Tip 7: Pesticide sprays

Available at most hardware stores and supermarkets, general pesticide sprays are effective at stopping silverfish in their tracks.

Protect your belongings from silverfish, get expert advice today

or

8371 1277

Professional silverfish management

Once a colony has been established, it can be difficult to manage a silverfish infestation without professional assistance. This is because silverfish lay eggs in easily overlooked tiny cracks and crevices all over your home and belongings.

That’s why at Allstate, our pest technicians are always available for ongoing treatments for persistent and recurring outbreaks when needed. Here are the methods that we use to successfully control silverfish:

Silverfish insecticide sprays

Effective in large areas, a fast-acting aerosol spray can reduce the silverfish population quickly.

Fumigation

A powerful solution for severe infestations, we’ll arrange with you to safely fumigate large, enclosed areas while you, your family and pets are not at home for a specified period of time.

Silverfish control dust

Sprinkled liberally in hard-to-reach spaces such as tiny gaps and wall cavities, diatomaceous earth control dust deters silverfish from accessing these areas to nest and hide their eggs.

Choose Allstate for fast and effective silverfish control

At Allstate, we’ve seen how sneaky silverfish can quietly cause damage and disruption in homes and businesses across town. That’s why we’re available 24/7 for urgent advice and solutions to managing silverfish problems in all suburbs of Adelaide.

Since 1986, Allstate has offered comprehensive pest control services, including innovative and modern silverfish treatments, to residential, commercial and industrial clients alike.

With an emphasis on safety, our pest control methods are always focused on the wellbeing of people, pets and the environment.

We offer payment plans and competitive warranties on all our services, so you can access long-lasting protection from silverfish outbreaks sooner rather than later.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

Rodent Control for Distribution Facilities

Rodent Control for Distribution Facilities

by | Jun 26, 2024 | Blog, Rats

A serious threat to distribution facilities, hungry rodents can make a mess, contaminate stock and have a negative impact on your business if you don’t act fast to stop them. This guide is for busy facilities managers to help safeguard your business from the threat of a rodent outbreak.

What questions will this article answer?

Why rodents are a threat to distribution facilities

Distribution facilities are ideal places for rodents to nest, feed and breed. As the weather cools down, they are particularly drawn to the shelter and warmth of the indoors.

As expert scavengers, they will eat almost anything, from human to pet food to rubbish, even soap and leather, with plenty of other food sources to choose from at any given distribution facility.

Businesses can pay a heavy price for a rodent outbreak. From spoiling goods and spreading diseases to causing electricity supply problems or even starting fires, rodents can cause disruption, distraction as well as loss of business, hygiene and productivity. Clients, customers and staff alike may feel put off from visiting your facility.

To make matters worse, a rodent infestation is considered a breach in government health and safety standards, and can result in significant fines and penalties.

With many potential rodent entry points at a distribution facility, it’s important to avoid an outbreak at all costs.

Problems caused by a rodent outbreak

Since warehouses and distribution facilities are ideal places for rodents to hide, nest and breed, this can create havoc in the workplace. Rodent problems can include:

Damage to stock, supplies, equipment and buildings

With their strong, continuously growing teeth, rodents can chew through packaging, wood, plaster and insulation, as well as electrical wiring. In addition to the damage, they can create a significant mess with gnawed food, scraps and crumbs.

Contamination and spreading infections

Rodents are notoriously unhygienic. They can carry germs and diseases in their fur, saliva and droppings, such as Salmonella, leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis and rat bite fever. They contaminate surfaces, utensils, floors and equipment and leave staff and customers feeling unwell.

Manage rodents fast. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

How to identify a rodent infestation at your distribution facility

Look for the following signs of a rodent outbreak at your business:

Noises

Distracting sounds may come from rodents in your roof and walls, such as scampering, scurrying and squeaking, particularly at night.

Gnaw marks

Rodents are able to chew through timber structures, pipes, walls and cables, not only causing physical damage, but also leaving behind characteristic bite marks. Also look for traces of gnawed food items and scattered crumbs.

Unpleasant smells

Rodent waste can give off a musty, sour smell.

Droppings

Shaped like black grains of rice, mouse droppings are 3-5mm in length, and rat droppings are usually 12-18mm in length.

Nests

Made from a collection of foraged material scraps including wood, cardboard, paper and fabric, rat nests are a strong indication that you have an outbreak on your hands. These can be hard to spot as they are usually well hidden.

How to prevent rodent outbreaks at distribution facilities

Rodent proofing [insert link: https://allstatepest.com.au/rats/how-to-get-rid-of-rats-in-winter/] your business is the best way to avoid the complications of an infestation. We recommend the following tips for a rodent-free workplace:

  • Inspect your building for all potential rat and mouse entry points [insert link: https://allstatepest.com.au/rats/7-tips-to-keep-rats-out-of-your-house-this-winter/] and seal them over
  • Rodents are incredibly flexible and have the ability to squeeze through tiny gaps, so cover all gaps, cracks and crevices as soon as you notice them.
  • Regularly inspect less-frequented storage areas as they make great hiding spots for rodents to build nests
  • Follow safe food handling and storage practices, removing all sources of water and clearing away food spills immediately
  • Maintain high hygiene standards by minimising clutter, and regularly clean using industrial strength products
  • Regularly maintain yards and outdoor areas by keeping plants and trees trimmed away from your building and removing piles of vegetation
  • Keeping rubbish bins and waste tightly sealed

    Protect your facility from rodents. Get fast advice today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Professional rodent control

    After a thorough assessment of your facility, we identify the source of the outbreak and then use the following rodent control methods to fix the problem:

    Physical traps

    Your pest control technician will position multiple baited traps in highly frequented areas to physically capture the rodents. With rats requiring larger traps and mice the smaller sized ones, we monitor and replenish the traps as needed.

    Baits

    Laced with a poisonous rodenticide, baits are an effective way to manage a rodent infestation. We are careful to use targeted baits that do not pose a risk to other animals or people.

    Integrated pest management for distribution facilities

    Preventing rodents and other pests from entering distribution facilities is best achieved with a comprehensive pest management strategy.

    Proven to keep customers, clients and employees safe from pest outbreaks, Allstate’s Integrated Pest Management program is the recommended approach to ensure that your business runs smoothly and pest-free everyday.

    Beginning with an initial assessment of your property, your assigned pest technician will check for any existing pest control systems and identify all potential risks. They then use this information to put together a compliant and comprehensive pest management solution that meets all government health and safety regulations.

    For your convenience, you’ll have 24/7 access via our online portal to your tailored pest management program, as well as all compliance documentation and inspection reports. You can instantly lodge any new problems with your assigned pest technician and receive a fast response and avoid unnecessary delays.

    No matter the size or complexity of your distribution facility, speak to Allstate today to learn how we can help you to keep rodents away for good.

    For fast and effective rodent management, choose Allstate

    At Allstate, we understand how stressful a rodent outbreak can be, and it can negatively impact the normal day-to-day operations at your business.

    That’s why our team is available 24/7 to all suburbs of Adelaide to tackle rodent infestations of all sizes in commercial, industrial and residential settings.

    Using non-toxic treatments that are safe for children, pets and the environment, our licensed pest control technicians are fully equipped with the latest technology to manage all types of pest outbreaks.

    Enquire today to see how our integrated pest management programs can help keep rodents away from your business for good.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now

    or

    8371 1277

    5 Ways to Prevent Pest Birds this Winter

    5 Ways to Prevent Pest Birds this Winter

    by | Jun 11, 2024 | Bird Control, Blog

    With the winter chill setting in, the last thing you need to worry about is a flock of pest birds sheltering in your roof. They’re messy, noisy and cause damage to your building.

    Continue reading to find out how you can stay free of pest birds this winter season.

    What questions will this article answer?

    Why are pest birds attracted to my home in winter?

    Well adapted to survive the harsh winter elements, pest birds such as pigeons, sparrows, starlings and mynas can thrive in homes and businesses across Adelaide.

    Similar to people, pest birds are drawn to the warmth and shelter that your home provides when the mercury drops.

    With the ability to squeeze through tiny gaps between loose roof tiles, they make their way inside your roof space, roof ventilators, attics and walls to build nests, lay eggs and raise their young. Another popular cosy nesting spot is underneath solar panels.

    If you’ve got food and water sources available, this makes your home even more appealing for pest birds, who survive by scavenging a wide range of food. From small insects to diving in rubbish bins to food scraps left on the ground, they are definitely not fussy eaters!

    How to spot a pest bird outbreak

    If you’re wondering whether or not you have some bird visitors or a full-blown pest bird outbreak, here’s some signs to look for:

    Large numbers of pest birds around your home

    You may find them perching and roosting on your roof, chimney, verandah, balcony, antennae, window panels, solar panels, gutters or wooden support beams.

    Persistent chirping noises

    Birds, and especially chicks, chirp to communicate with each other.

    Bird droppings

    An accumulation of messy brown, black or white droppings on the ground is a clear sign of a pest bird outbreak.

    Nesting material

    Pest birds are clever at crafting sturdy nests from various foraged scraps, such as twigs, leaves, straw, pine needles and grass. So look out for nests underneath solar panels, inside your roof, or even tucked between some wooden beams.

    Control pest birds fast. Speak to an expert today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Problems caused by a pest bird outbreak

    There are many problems that a pest bird outbreak can cause in your home or business:

    • Constant chirping sounds can be distracting and disruptive
    • Pest bird droppings are an eyesore and contain corrosive compounds that can damage your roof, buildings, air conditioning unit, solar panels and outdoor furniture
    • Sticky and slippery bird droppings are a health and safety hazard for stairs, fire escapes and footpaths
    • They can carry and spread germs and diseases such as ornithosis (Bird Fancier’s Lung), cryptococcosis, salmonella, E-coli bacteria, histoplasmosis and aspergillosis
    • Pest birds carry parasites such as bird mites, bed bugs and ticks, which can trigger secondary pest outbreaks and allergiess
    • Birds can contaminate food and water contamination through droppings, nesting material and feathers
    • The accumulation of feathers and nesting material in your gutters and drains can cause water blockage, leaks and overflow
    • Pecking and fouling in your garden can ruin your plants, fruit trees and veggie patch and leave a mess behind
    • Pest birds can be aggressive and breed fast, so if you notice fewer native birds in your yard, chances are that pest birds have taken over the space as their territory

    5 ways you can prevent pest birds this winter

    We recommend the following tips to help protect your home or business from a pest bird outbreak:

    Tip 1: Remove all sources of food and water

    Pest birds are expert scavengers and have a wide and varied diet which can include common things you would find in an average suburban backyard. This includes flowers, fruit, vegetables, and insects. Pet food and water bowls, as well as food scraps in compost piles and rubbish bins are also a popular choice.

    While bird feeders and bird baths can attract native birds, they’re also likely to capture the interest of pest birds. Where possible, we recommend having less available food and water and keeping compost and waste tightly sealed and covered.

    Tip 2: Regularly inspect your home for access points and proof them

    Pest birds range in size and have the ability to squeeze into small spaces to enter your home. So, it’s best to check your roof for gaps between loose tiles, uncovered vents and other small openings and either seal them off or cover them with a fine mesh. Overhanging branches and vegetation can also encourage birds to nest close to the building.

    Tip 3: Locate and remove nesting material

    As territorial creatures by nature, pest birds carefully choose places to nest, roost and breed. Besides harbouring different types of parasites, germs and diseases, nests also provide a safe place to lay and incubate eggs, which attracts more birds and worsens an outbreak.

    Regular yard maintenance and keeping your garden tidy and relatively free of small loose twigs and leaves can also help reduce the availability of nesting material.

    Tip 4: Clean and disinfect the affected area

    Not only do pest birds make a mess with feathers, germ-infested nesting material, debris and droppings, they also leave behind pheromones, which attracts other birds. That’s why it’s always important to clean up the mess from any pest bird infestation.

    Allstate offers professional cleaning and property maintenance services to refresh, rejuvenate and sterilise the mess from pest birds. Our services include gutter, roof void and water tank cleaning or pressure washing to keep your property looking sparkling clean and pest-free.

    Tip 5: Solar panel cleaning and proofing

    With the rise in solar panel installations, pest birds have had increasingly more options for safe and comfortable nesting spots on roofs all around Adelaide.

    Unfortunately, they are also responsible for causing messy stains and damage to expensive solar panels, resulting in the loss of efficiency.

    You can avoid pricey repair bills with Allstate’s solar panel cleaning and proofing service.

    After managing the pest bird problem, we conduct a thorough clean of the area and then install a UV coated mesh skirting to the sides of your panels. This hard-wearing mesh prevents birds from nesting underneath your panels, enabling them to function at their best.

    Protect your home from pest birds today

    or

    8371 1277

    Professional pest bird management

    At Allstate, we provide a range of innovative and humane pest bird management methods Depending on the extent of the outbreak, we may use a combination of approaches to ensure that the root cause of the problem is fixed as quickly as possible.

    These include:

    • Installing roosting deterrents such as bird spikes, netting, wire, jolt
    • Physical control measures such as trapping
    • OvoControl – an RSPCA approved and AI-powered modern long-term bird control solution

    To learn more about a tailored bird control program for your home or business, contact Allstate for a comprehensive pest bird assessment today.

    For safe and fast pest bird control, choose Allstate

    Having a pest bird infestation is a noisy and messy distraction, and the last thing you need to deal with in the cold winter weather!

    At Allstate, we understand pest bird behaviour so that we can manage all infestations from their source, and use a range of innovative and modern treatments to help prevent the problem from returning.

    Since 1986, we’ve assisted homes and businesses across all suburbs of Adelaide with pest bird outbreaks of all sizes in commercial, residential and industrial settings.

    Available 24/7 for advice and solutions, we offer payment plans to help keep you and your family protected from pest birds for good.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now

    or

    8371 1277