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pest control inspection near me in Toms River, New Jersey

As homeowners and business owners in New Jersey gear up for another season, preventing pest infestations should be a top priority. According to the National Pest Management Association, ant infestations are on the rise, with over half of pest professionals (54%) reporting an increase in calls. Among these, odorous house ants are the most common culprit, a trend driven by factors such as increased moisture, changing pest control practices, and the introduction of new species. Consumers are also becoming understandably less tolerant of pests in their homes and businesses, which has resulted in a surge of infestation reports.

Why maintaining a clean environment and scheduling regular pest inspections are important

Ants, like many pests, are highly attracted to food, moisture, and shelter. Professionals emphasize that proper sanitation, moisture control, and sealing entry points are key to keeping them out. In fact, two out of three pest experts agree that ant infestations are directly linked to cleanliness. That’s why keeping your property free from food crumbs, standing water, and overgrown vegetation can significantly reduce the chances of an infestation.

Prevention alone may not always be enough

Pest control professionals find that treating an active ant infestation often requires multiple visits, with at least two treatments necessary in the majority of cases. That’s why we advise taking a proactive approach by implementing an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy—a combination of regular inspections, sealing cracks and crevices, eliminating food and water sources, and applying treatments when necessary.

By following a preventative pest control checklist, property owners can protect their spaces from ants and other nuisance pests. A clean, well-maintained home or business is the first line of defense against infestations. In the sections that follow, we’ll provide an easy-to-follow checklist to help you keep your property pest-free year-round.

Exterior Home Inspection Checklist

Identify and Seal Entry Points

Pests enter homes through small openings. Do a visual check around your home’s foundation, doors, windows and roof to see cracks, gaps or holes. Caulk or weatherstrip gaps around:

Windows and Doors: Make sure screens fit tight and door sweeps are in place.
Pipes and Utility Lines: Seal openings where plumbing, gas or electrical lines enter the home.
Foundation and Walls: Repair cracks in the foundation and gaps in siding.

Landscaping to Prevent Pests

Landscaping choices can either attract pests or help deter them. Keep plants, mulch and debris away from your home’s foundation to prevent insects and rodents from nesting near the structure.

Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so empty birdbaths, clogged gutters and outdoor containers regularly.
Trim Vegetation: Keep tree branches and bushes at least 18 inches from the home.
Use Gravel Instead of Mulch: Mulch retains moisture, attracts termites and ants.

Inspect Roof and Attic Areas

Pests like squirrels, birds and insects find shelter in attics. Regular inspections help you identify vulnerabilities.

Check for Gaps: Make sure vents, soffits and attic openings are sealed.
Look for Signs of Infestation: Droppings, spider webs and nesting materials indicate pest activity.
Inspect for Water Damage: Moisture issues can weaken wood, making it more susceptible to carpenter ants and termites.

Interior Home Pest Control Inspection

Kitchen and Food Storage Areas

Food attracts pests so kitchen areas are crucial to inspect. Follow these steps to prevent pests from getting into your food storage areas:

Store Food in Sealed Containers: Keep dry goods in airtight containers to prevent cockroaches and ants from getting to them.
Clean Crumbs and Spills Immediately: Bugs are attracted to food residue on floors and counters.
Inspect Under Appliances and Toe Kicks: Rodents and other pests hide in hard-to-reach areas.

Plumbing and Moisture Control

Leaks and excess moisture create pest breeding grounds. Inspect plumbing and utility areas to prevent water-related infestations:

Fix Leaky Pipes and Faucets: Continuous moisture attracts cockroaches, termites and ants.
Check Under Sinks and Behind Appliances: Look for water damage, mold or droppings.
Make Sure Proper Drainage: Keep gutters clear and direct water away from the foundation.

Basement and Crawl Space Inspection

Basements and crawl spaces are a haven for rodents, spiders and other pests due to the dark and undisturbed environment. A pest control inspection should include:

Inspect for Cracks and Gaps: Seal any openings where pests may enter.

Looking for Rodent Droppings: Rodent activity is often indicated by droppings and gnaw marks.

Check for Moisture Issues: Excess humidity attracts termites, carpenter ants and other insects.

Ongoing Pest Prevention Measures

Regular Pest Control Inspections

Homeowners should schedule professional pest control inspections at least once a year. Using a pest control inspection checklist ensures no area is missed.

Use Inspection Forms: Keep records of past inspections and treatments.
Consult Relevant Personnel: If you manage a rental or commercial property, make sure all maintenance staff are aware of pest control protocols.
Consider Pest Control Software: Digital tracking tools help monitor pest activity and schedule treatments.

Proper Waste and Storage Management

Pests are attracted to food and garbage so waste management is key to prevention.

Keep Trash Sealed: Store garbage in lidded bins and empty them regularly.
Don’t Store Cardboard Boxes: Rodents and cockroaches nest in cardboard so opt for plastic storage bins instead.
Inspect Food Containers: Make sure they’re properly sealed to prevent contamination.

Seasonal Pest Concerns

Each season brings different pest challenges. Prepare accordingly:### Seasonal Pest Concerns

Spring and Summer: Mosquitoes, ants, termites
Fall and Winter: Rodents
After Storms: Water damage

When to Call Professional Pest Control

While these measures reduce the risk of infestations, some pest problems require professional help. Callahan’s Termite & Pest Control serves New Jersey homeowners.

Termite Control & Repair: Termite mud tubes, wood damage, discarded wings
Bed Bug Extermination: Itching, red bites, bloodstains on bedding
Rodent Removal: Rodent droppings, scratching noises

Preventive pest control is an ongoing process. Follow this pest control inspection checklist to keep pests out of your home.

For professional help, Callahan’s Termite & Pest Control offers customized pest control services for New Jersey. Need a checklist, inspection or emergency service? Call Callahan’s.