Job Overview
Location: Vaughan, Ontario
Structure: Large two-storey residential home with full perimeter decking
Problem: Rat activity reported inside and outside the home
Service: Rat control, exterior baiting, and structural exclusion
Visits: Multiple visits
Summary
We were contacted to address ongoing rat activity affecting both the exterior and interior of a large residential property. Our team completed a staged approach that included confirmation of activity, licensed exterior rodenticide treatment, and a comprehensive exclusion program. Follow-up visits confirmed successful control and long-term resolution of interior activity.
Background / Property Context
The property is a large two-storey home with extensive perimeter decking and multiple foundation interfaces. These features created concealed voids and limited visibility along the foundation line, increasing the likelihood of rodent harborage and hidden access points.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported repeated rat sightings around the exterior of the home as well as confirmed activity inside. Concerns included ongoing noise, possible entry through the foundation, and the risk of continued infestation without corrective action.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, our technician confirmed active rat presence. Exterior inspection identified numerous vulnerable areas along the foundation, utility penetrations, and beneath the surrounding deck. Interior conditions were consistent with rodent movement originating from exterior entry points.
Photos provided show disturbed insulation in a lower crawlspace area, open foundation gaps, utility and plumbing penetrations with visible voids, and unsecured deck-to-foundation interfaces. These conditions are consistent with rodent access and travel routes.
Cause Analysis
The infestation was driven by structural vulnerabilities common to large homes with complex foundations and attached decking. Open gaps around utility lines, deteriorated foundation joints, and unprotected deck voids provided rats with concealed access into the structure. Exterior food pressure and shelter opportunities allowed the population to persist without intervention.
Treatment / Removal
Rodent control work was carried out by a licensed exterminator in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
During the initial service phase, large weighted tamper-resistant bait stations containing commercial-grade rodenticide were installed around the exterior in areas of confirmed activity. These stations were positioned to address the exterior population while limiting non-target exposure.
Follow-up visits included re-baiting of exterior stations due to high feeding levels, indicating ongoing exterior pressure prior to full exclusion.
Exclusion & Repairs
After approval, a comprehensive rodent exclusion program was completed, including:
- Sealing two utility line penetrations using galvanized steel mesh and professional sealant
- Sealing three foundation gaps with concrete and galvanized steel mesh
- Installing approximately 36 linear feet of galvanized steel mesh exclusion beneath perimeter decking
- Installing a rat one-way door to allow animals inside the structure to exit without re-entry
All exclusion materials were mechanically secured and installed to withstand environmental exposure.
Outcome & Confirmation
During the final service phase, the homeowner reported no further rat activity inside the home. One-way doors were removed, and all remaining entry points were permanently sealed. A final exterior inspection confirmed exclusion integrity and no new access points.
Exterior bait stations remained in place as part of ongoing exterior control, and no interior rodent activity has been reported since completion of the work.
Technician Notes
Dylan conducted the inspections, confirmed active rat pressure, and completed the exclusion work in stages due to the scope of structural vulnerabilities. Final inspection confirmed successful resolution of interior activity and stable exclusion materials.
This work was completed by our Vaughan pest control team. For pest control inquiries in Vaughan, contact 647-496-5791.