Job Overview
Location: Hamilton, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-storey house
Problem: Mouse activity reported in the basement, primarily at night
Service: Mouse treatment with exterior and interior control and exclusion
Visits: 3 visits
Summary
We responded to reports of mouse activity within the basement of a detached home. Our team completed a full exterior inspection, implemented licensed mouse control measures, and sealed multiple identified entry points. Follow-up visits confirmed that interior activity stopped quickly and that all exclusion work remained effective.
Background / Property Context
The property is a detached two-storey residential structure with finished and unfinished basement areas. Exterior features included multiple wall vents, utility penetrations, window frames, and foundation transitions that can present access opportunities for mice, particularly during colder months. Service was performed in November.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported hearing and noticing signs of mouse activity in the basement during nighttime hours and requested inspection and treatment to address both the active infestation and potential exterior entry points.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial visit, our inspection identified several vulnerable areas along the exterior envelope. Observed conditions included gaps at wall vents, small openings around utility line penetrations, and cracks around multiple basement-level windows. Exterior monitoring locations showed conditions consistent with mouse travel along the foundation line.
Photos provided show:
- A tamper-resistant exterior bait station with evidence of prior feeding.
- Gaps along foundation and siding transitions near ground level.
- Openings around utility and plumbing penetrations prior to sealing.
- Wall vents without protective screening before exclusion work.
- Completed vent screening using galvanized steel cages after repairs.
Cause Analysis
Mouse activity was likely driven by seasonal conditions and the availability of small exterior openings at foundation level and service penetrations. Gaps around vents, utilities, and window frames can allow mice to enter as they seek warmth and shelter. Once inside wall or floor voids, basement activity becomes noticeable, especially at night.
Treatment / Removal
Mouse control was performed by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines. Interior and exterior tamper-resistant bait stations were installed in areas of elevated activity. Commercial-grade rodenticide was used within secured stations to control the active population while minimizing risk to non-target species.
Exclusion & Repairs
As part of the approved work, we completed the following exclusion measures:
- Secured two accessible plastic wall vents with galvanized steel protective cages.
- Sealed a utility line penetration using professional-grade sealant and galvanized steel mesh.
- Repaired and sealed cracks around eight windows using a combination of caulking and galvanized steel mesh to prevent rodent entry.
All materials were selected for durability and suitability for exterior use.
Outcome & Confirmation
Interior mouse activity stopped shortly after the initial treatment. During follow-up visits, exterior bait stations showed minimal feeding, indicating a declining population. On the final visit, all exclusion points were inspected and confirmed intact and functional. The homeowner reported no further activity and was satisfied with the outcome.
Technician Notes
The work was completed by our technician, Shaohua. Follow-up inspections confirmed that control measures were effective and that exclusion repairs remained secure with no new entry points observed.
This work was completed by our Hamilton pest control team. For pest control inquiries in Hamilton, contact 905-581-9985.