Job Overview
Location: Peterborough, Ontario
Structure: Single-storey detached home with brick exterior, metal roof, and attached garage
Problem: Rat activity in unfinished basement and exterior perimeter
Service: Rat treatment
Visits: Two
Summary
Our team responded to reports of rat activity inside an unfinished basement and along the exterior of a single-storey detached home. Inspection confirmed both interior and exterior rat presence. A two-visit treatment plan was implemented focusing on interior control and exterior population reduction. Entry points were identified and documented, with exclusion recommended but not completed as part of this service.
Background / Property Context
The home is a single-storey detached structure with a brick exterior and metal roofing system. An aluminum extension runs below the foundation line, and an attached garage is located at grade. The basement is unfinished, with exposed framing and utility penetrations that allow visibility of structural gaps.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported hearing and seeing signs of rats in the unfinished basement, along with suspected activity around the exterior foundation and garage area.
Inspection & Findings
Inspection confirmed rat activity inside the basement, including evidence near foundation walls and structural framing. Exterior inspection identified multiple potential entry points, including foundation gaps, siding interfaces, and openings near utility penetrations. Activity was also noted around the garage perimeter and along the foundation line.
Photos taken during inspection appear to show gaps at the foundation, openings along soffit and siding transitions, and exposed areas within the garage and basement that could allow rodent access.
Cause Analysis
Rats were likely attracted to the structure due to accessible ground-level openings and sheltered conditions around the foundation and garage. Structural gaps and penetrations provided multiple entry opportunities into the unfinished basement. Exterior harbourage areas supported an ongoing outdoor population contributing to repeated interior pressure.
Treatment / Removal
Treatment was performed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
During the first visit, large commercial-grade baited snap traps were placed inside the basement in areas of confirmed activity. This approach was used to prevent rats from dying within wall voids. On the exterior, large weighted, tamper-proof bait stations containing commercial-grade rodenticide were installed in areas of high activity to address the exterior population.
Exclusion & Repairs
A full exterior inspection identified several entry points requiring sealing, including foundation gaps and siding interfaces. Exclusion work was recommended and quoted; however, no sealing or repairs were completed as part of this service.
Outcome & Confirmation
At the second visit, exterior bait stations showed high levels of feeding and were rebaited accordingly. No service limitations were encountered. Interior trapping and exterior baiting remained in place to continue population control. Ongoing exclusion was advised to prevent future re-entry.
Technician Notes
Grant conducted both service visits, confirming active rat presence inside and outside the structure. Interior trapping was selected to manage indoor risk, while exterior baiting targeted the larger surrounding population. Entry points were clearly documented for future exclusion work.
Contact is at 705-535-0854 if you have any rodent or pest issue you want resolved