Job Overview
Location: Burlington, Ontario
Structure: Two-storey attached home with brick first floor and siding on the second floor
Problem: Mouse activity reported inside the home, including droppings and live sightings
Service: Mouse treatment and exterior exclusion
Visits: Six visits
Summary
Our team completed a multi-visit mouse control program focused on exterior entry point exclusion and monitored baiting. Interior activity was eliminated, and exterior monitoring continues through secured bait stations.
Background / Property Context
The property is a two-storey attached home with mixed exterior materials. Brick masonry at grade and multiple utility and vent penetrations were present along the foundation and roofline. These features can create gaps if sealants or original finishes degrade over time.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported ongoing mouse activity in the basement and other interior areas, including droppings and live rodents. The concern was persistent movement inside the home despite no obvious interior food sources.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, several potential entry points were identified at ground level and along service penetrations. These included a foundation gap near a corner, an unsecured wall vent, and openings around utility and plumbing penetrations. Follow-up inspections identified additional gaps at siding transitions, two utility lines, and a roof plumbing vent.
Photos provided show:
- A visible foundation corner gap at grade prior to exclusion.
- Wall and roof vents after installation of galvanized steel screening.
- Utility and plumbing penetrations before and after sealing with appropriate materials.
Cause Analysis
Mouse activity was likely driven by multiple small exterior gaps that allowed access from ground level and along service penetrations. Masonry joints, utility entries, and vents are common vulnerability points, particularly on older or attached structures. Once established, mice can repeatedly access interior wall cavities and basement areas.
Treatment / Removal
This service was performed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
Tamper-resistant exterior bait stations were installed in areas of high activity to address the active rodent population. Stations were serviced and rebaited over multiple visits, resulting in a steady reduction of activity to zero inside the home. Interior activity was resolved through the combined use of baiting and exclusion.
Exclusion & Repairs
Exclusion work was completed in stages as additional entry points were identified:
- Installation of galvanized steel screening over an accessible wall vent.
- Sealing of a foundation gap using black rubber-coated galvanized steel mesh.
- Sealing of two utility line penetrations using concrete and exterior-grade caulking.
- Screening of a roof plumbing vent with galvanized steel mesh.
All exclusion materials were selected to withstand weather exposure and prevent rodent re-entry.
Outcome & Confirmation
By visits three through six, bait station activity had reduced to zero, and no further interior mouse activity was reported. Exterior bait stations remain in place for continued monitoring, and all identified entry points have been sealed.
Technician Notes
The initial inspection and treatment were completed by Shaohua. Progressive reductions in activity were observed following exclusion and scheduled bait station servicing. No new entry points were identified after the final visit.
This work was completed by our Burlington pest control team. For pest control inquiries in Burlington, contact 647-496-5721.