Your 8 step plan to a pest-free year

Pests are more than just a nuisance. They pose serious health risks, cause structural damage and can even harm business reputation. With the new year ushering in a renewed commitment to health and wellness, why not extend that to your home or business and set a goal for pest prevention?

Creating a proactive pest prevention plan is much simpler than you may imagine. We’ve outlined 8 simple steps you can put into practice this year to keep your property safe, clean, and pest-free.

1.Start with a Site Inspection

Start the year off right with a detailed pest inspection of your home or business premises. Rentokil Initial offers free site inspections, but if you’d prefer to adopt the ‘do it yourself’ approach, look for the following signs:  animal droppings, gnaw marks, nests, or unusual smells. Focus on common problem areas like below the kitchen or bathroom sink, store rooms and dark cupboards.

2. Seal Entry Points

Pests like rodents and cockroaches gain access to buildings through the smallest cracks and openings. Seal gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and vents with rodent proofing material, available at some hardwares. Rodent proofing also comes standard with Rentokil Initial’s rodent control service. Door sweeps, mosquito mesh and netting are also a good idea for an additional layer of protection.

3. Maintain Cleanliness

A clean environment is one of the most effective deterrents against pests. Keep your kitchen, pantry and food storage areas clean and sanitised. Always dispose of garbage in secure bins. Another important tip is to avoid clutter. Pests love to hide in dark, undisturbed spaces.

4. Proper Food Storage

Pests are always on the hunt for food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers and avoid leaving food exposed. In businesses such as restaurants and hotels, ensure strict food handling protocols are in place to prevent contamination and pest attraction.

5. Address Moisture Issues

Cockroaches, termites, and mosquitoes thrive in damp environments. Fix any leaky pipes, clogged drains, or standing water around your property and keep an eye out for moisture issues under sinks in kitchens, laundries and bathrooms.

6. Implement Regular Landscaping

Overgrown outdoor spaces can also contribute to pest problems as rodents, cockroaches and other pests seek harbourage among piles of leaves, wood or debris. Keep your garden well-maintained by regularly trimming overgrown shrubs and trees and clearing away dry leaves and other debris.

7. Consider a Pest Control Contract

The best way to ensure year-round protection is with professional pest control services. Rentokil Initial offers pest management solutions that are customised to your property’s particular needs with a convenient contract service that ensures ongoing protection.  

8. Educate Your Household or Staff

Pest prevention is a team effort. Educate your family members or employees about best practices for keeping pests at bay. Encourage proper waste disposal, regular cleaning habits, and early reporting of any pest sightings. Awareness and proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infestations.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to protect your family, or a business owner aiming to maintain a pest-free workplace, Rentokil Initial is here to support with expert guidance and professional pest control solutions. By following the advice above, you can take the first steps towards a pest free 2025. Don’t wait until pests become a problem—start the year strong with a proactive approach. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and set up a pest prevention plan that fits your needs.

Wishing you a happy, healthy, and pest-free new year! inspection and set up a pest prevention plan that fits your needs.

Ready to say goodbye to pests for good? Get in touch!

Getting pest infestations under control typically requires expert help. A multi-step approach is recommended to completely eliminate an infestation and prevent recurrence. If you’re ready to get rid of pests for good, get in touch.

Call us on 242 322 2157 or contact us online and we’ll contact you within 24 hours to help you control pests in your residential or business premises