PUBLIC HEALTH EDUCATIONEvidence-Based Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Information

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ServiceFind Pest HealthEvidence-Based IPM Education

ServiceFind Pest Health • Printable Action Tool

Residential Rodent-Proofing & Physical Exclusion Checklist

Technical exclusion guidance focusing on sealing entry points larger than 1/4 inch with copper mesh, hardware cloth, and durable sealants.

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Audience: Homeowners, Building Supers, and RentersTopic: Rodent PreventionLast Reviewed: September 2026Document Status: Educational Checklist

💡 How to use: You can check off items interactively on this screen or click Print This Checklist to generate a clean, paper-ready copy for your walkthrough.

1. Exterior Exclusion & Sealing

Inspect foundation perimeter using the 'pencil test' (mice can enter gaps larger than 1/4 inch / 6mm).Pack utility line penetrations (HVAC lines, gas pipes, electrical conduits) with copper mesh or stainless steel wool, then cap with exterior-grade silicone or cement.Do not rely solely on spray polyurethane foam, as rodents can easily chew through unreinforced foam.Install heavy-gauge metal door sweeps along garage doors and exterior entryways.

2. Food & Shelter Sanitation

Keep outdoor garbage cans tightly sealed with rodent-resistant latches.Remove fallen fruit, birdseed spillage, and pet food left outdoors.Keep compost bins covered with 1/4-inch wire mesh along the base.

3. Safe Trapping & Sanitation

Place mechanical wooden or plastic snap traps perpendicular to walls with bait pedals facing the baseboard.Never dry-sweep or vacuum rodent droppings (risk of airborne viral particles); spray with disinfectant, let sit 5 minutes, and wipe up with damp paper towels wearing gloves.

Walkthrough Notes & Moisture Observations:

Inspector / Resident: __________________________Date Completed: ___________________