Job Overview
Location: Peterborough, Ontario
Structure: Detached three-storey house with a ground-floor salon (commercial use)
Problem: Rat activity reported inside a salon
Service: Rat treatment and exterior exclusion
Visits: 6
Summary
We were called to address ongoing rat activity inside a salon operating on the first floor of a residential structure. Inspection confirmed significant exterior access points and active feeding both inside and outside the building. A multi-visit treatment program was completed, followed by full exterior exclusion once activity levels were reduced and authorization was provided.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached multi-storey building with red brick and stone at grade. The first floor is used as a commercial salon, increasing sensitivity to interior rodent activity. The structure had multiple utility penetrations, vents, and foundation transitions at ground level.
Customer Concern
The customer reported repeated rat sightings and signs of activity within the salon space. Due to the commercial nature of the space, there was concern about continued intrusion and sanitation risks.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, we identified heavy rat activity on the exterior perimeter and confirmed access routes into the building. Findings included:
- An exposed iron draining grate with no protective screening
- Multiple large, open foundation gaps
- Unprotected wall vents at ground level
- Gaps behind siding and utility line penetrations
Interior monitoring confirmed ongoing activity consistent with exterior access.
Cause Analysis
Rats were able to access the structure through multiple unsealed openings at ground level. Aging building materials, foundation transitions, and unprotected vents created favourable entry conditions. The presence of a commercial space at grade increased warmth and attractants, supporting continued activity.
Treatment / Removal
All pest control work was performed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
- Two large, weighted tamper-resistant bait stations were installed on the exterior to address the broader population.
- Large, baited snap traps were installed inside the building to control interior movement and prevent rodents from dying within wall voids.
- Follow-up visits focused on monitoring and rebaiting, with consistently high feeding noted during visits 2 through 5.
Exclusion & Repairs
On the sixth visit, after treatment stabilized activity levels, approved exclusion work was completed. This included:
- Sealing the iron draining grate with galvanized steel mesh
- Installing galvanized steel cages over two wall vents
- Sealing approximately eight and a half feet of siding gaps with galvanized steel mesh
- Sealing approximately one foot of foundation gaps using mortar and galvanized steel mesh
- Securing one utility line penetration with caulking and galvanized steel mesh
All materials were installed flush to the structure to prevent re-entry while maintaining ventilation and drainage.
Outcome & Confirmation
Following exclusion, no further rat activity was reported. Monitoring confirmed reduced exterior feeding and no interior captures after completion. All identified entry points were sealed, and the structure was confirmed secure at the final visit.
Technician Notes
The work was completed over six visits by our technician, Grant. High levels of activity required repeated rebaiting prior to exclusion. No access limitations were encountered during the service period. Exterior conditions at grade were consistent with long-term rodent pressure.
This service was completed by our Peterborough Pest Control team. For Pest Control inquiries in Peterborough, contact 705-535-0854.