Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much does a mice exterminator cost near me?
A mice exterminator costs$150 to $550 for average cases. The cheapest prices are for a single visit to set traps after inspecting the home. Professionals recommend getting an ongoing pest service plan to monitor bait stations and traps. Extermination isn't complete without sealing the home entirely. Terminix charges$300 to $500 to remove mice and other rodents.
These extra costs apply if the mice lived there for a long time:
Hiring a professional mice exterminator is worth it since they handle rodent issues effectively and safely to solve the problem faster. Their advice on mouse deterrence minimizes future property damage and health hazards. Swift action is vital considering the rapid reproduction rate of mice.
When do I call an exterminator for mice?
Call a mice exterminator when you spot infestation signs like:
Piles of feces
Gnawed items
Scratching sounds
Urine stains
Immediate intervention is necessary if you detect signs of nesting, like litter and food particles behind cabinets. Mice reproduce very quickly, and you can find them if you look in shadowed places.
How long does it take to get rid of mice?
The eradication process to get rid of mice takes a few hours to days for minor infestations, while severe cases could take several months. Place mouse traps close to visible evidence of mice presence, like feces, beneath appliances, or within cupboards to make them more effective.
Completely mouse-proofing your home by sealing entrances might take up to 3 days.
How do exterminators get rid of mice?
Exterminators employ various strategies to get rid of mice, including traps, bait stations, rodenticides, and exclusion doors on entry points to prevent future infestations. The CDC advises using poison only for large-scale infestations. Mechanical traps and chemical baits pose potential dangers if used without professional training.
Do mice come back after extermination?
Extermination kills all mice present on your property so that they can't come back. However, if the company doesn't thoroughly seal off all entry points, then new mice can invade from the outdoors. Releasing mice at a distance less than 6 to 10 miles typically results in their return.
Sealing the home is essential and should include patching all gaps in the foundations, closing foundation vents, and blocking off gable vents.
How do I prepare for a mice exterminator?
To prepare for a mice exterminator's visit, ensure you repair any holes in the walls, declutter your kitchen, and clean your home.
Key steps include:
Storing food in sealed containers
Repairing holes in the floors, cabinets, or walls
Clearing spaces under the sink and above the refrigerator
Avoiding the use of pesticides before treatment
Temporarily relocating family members and pets during the extermination
Emptying the lower cabinets in bathrooms and kitchen
How do I choose the best mice exterminator service near me?