Job Overview
Location: Ajax, Ontario
Structure: Two-storey detached house with built-in garage
Problem: Rat activity reported on both the exterior and interior of the home
Service: Rat control
Visits: 2
Summary
We attended a residential property in Ajax after reports of rat activity inside the home and around the exterior foundation. Our team confirmed active rodent presence, addressed the exterior population with secured baiting, identified entry points at utility penetrations, and completed a two-visit exclusion process using one-way doors followed by permanent sealing.
Background / Property Context
The property is a two-storey detached home with landscaped garden beds along the foundation and multiple utility lines entering at ground level. Dense vegetation and soil contact at the foundation created concealed access points for rodents.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported ongoing rat sightings and noises inside the home, as well as visible activity outside near the foundation. The primary concern was preventing further interior access while resolving the exterior population.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial visit, our technician confirmed rat activity on the exterior and signs consistent with interior access. An exterior inspection identified two rat-sized openings at utility line penetrations on opposite sides of the house. These openings were consistent with active entry points.
Photos taken during service appear to show:
- Tamper-resistant exterior bait stations positioned near foundation walls and utility lines
- Soil disturbance and access points at utility penetrations
- Temporary wire one-way doors installed over foundation openings
- Subsequent removal of doors and screened/sealed utility gaps
Cause Analysis
Rats were able to access the structure through unsealed utility penetrations at ground level. Vegetation cover and soil contact along the foundation reduced visibility of these openings and provided shelter, allowing repeated entry into the home.
Treatment / Removal
On the first visit, a licensed exterminator placed large, weighted, tamper-resistant bait stations around the exterior in areas of high activity. These stations contained commercial-grade rodenticide and were installed in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines to reduce the exterior rat population.
The homeowner was presented with treatment options for the interior risk. At their request, we proceeded with an exclusion-based approach using one-way doors rather than interior snap trapping.
Exclusion & Repairs
Two one-way doors were installed over the identified utility entry points to allow rats to exit the structure without re-entry. The doors were secured to the foundation and monitored over the exclusion period.
On the second visit, with no further interior activity reported, the one-way doors were removed. The utility penetrations were then permanently sealed and screened to prevent future access.
Outcome & Confirmation
At follow-up, the homeowner confirmed no further rat activity inside the home. Final inspection verified that the one-way doors had been removed, entry points were sealed, and exterior bait stations remained in place for continued monitoring. No additional interior rodent issues were reported after completion.
Technician Notes
The work was completed over two visits by our technician, Grant, with clear exterior entry points identified early in the inspection. Exclusion was successful without the need for interior trapping, and all work was completed safely and in accordance with provincial guidelines.
This service was completed by our Ajax Pest Control team. For Pest Control inquiries in Ajax, contact 905-756-4235.