Rodents can gain entry to buildings by taking advantage of structural gaps from drains to doors, windows, pipework and cables, vents and poorly fitted panels and roofing material.
Once inside your building, rodents can pose a significant risk to your business. They carry a wide range of diseases, can physically contaminate stock, damage building infrastructure and can ultimately have a negative impact on your business’ reputation.
Rentokil can help keep your business free from infestations by implementing preventative practices and suitable pest proofing solutions to block entry routes. We have over 95 years of experience studying pest behaviour to provide customers with innovative control solutions. We’ve developed the most effective pest proofing methods and materials to safeguard businesses from rodents and other pests at our Global Research and Development Centre.
Our expert technicians are specially trained and understand how to target pest species, know exactly which holes to proof to block rodent entry, how to proof them and use a combination of best-in-class products to achieve effective pest proofing. Here are some key benefits and reasons why it is important to take proactive measures to prevent pests from entering your building:
Pests can pose significant health risks to occupants of a building. They can carry and transmit various diseases, bacteria, and pathogens that can cause illnesses. Common pests like rodents, cockroaches, and flies are known to be carriers of harmful pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Hantavirus. By pest-proofing your building, you minimize the potential for disease transmission and create a healthier and safer environment for occupants.
Pests can cause damage to the structure of your building, leading to costly repairs and maintenance. For example, termites can weaken wooden structures, rodents can gnaw through electrical wiring and insulation, and burrowing pests like moles and groundhogs can damage the foundation. By preventing pests from entering, you safeguard the integrity of your building and prevent potential structural damage.
Pests can cause damage to property, including furniture, equipment, and stored goods. Rodents, insects, and certain pests like carpet beetles can chew through fabrics, papers, and even plastic materials. By implementing pest-proofing measures, you can protect your property and avoid financial losses associated with pest-related damage.
Pests in a commercial building can harm your reputation and affect customer satisfaction. If customers or clients encounter pests in your establishment, it can create a negative impression and impact your business's credibility. Pest-free environments contribute to a positive image, customer comfort, and satisfaction.
Many industries have specific regulations and requirements related to pest control and hygiene. Failing to meet these regulations can result in fines, penalties, or legal issues. By pest-proofing your building, you demonstrate compliance with health and safety regulations and maintain a favourable standing with regulatory authorities.
Pests often attract other pests. For example, a rodent infestation can attract insects that feed on rodents, such as fleas or ticks. By eliminating entry points and reducing the presence of pests, you minimize the risk of secondary infestations and prevent the need for additional pest control measures.
Proactive pest-proofing measures can save you money in the long run. Investing in preventive measures is generally more cost-effective than dealing with a full-blown infestation and its associated expenses, such as pest control treatments, repairs, property damage, and potential loss of business or productivity.
Pest-proofing your building is an essential part of facility management and demonstrates your commitment to creating a healthy, safe, and pest-free environment for occupants and visitors. It helps protect your property, reputation, and the well-being of those within the building while preventing potential pest-related problems.
In order to prevent rodents, we have a comprehensive range of pest proofing solutions to arm your premises against pest intrusion. Flexi Armour is one of the most effective solutions to protect high-risk areas internally and externally. Each product in the range has been proven to tackle rodents’ innate tendencies and habits, warding them off. The range includes Expansion, Seal, Dock, Weep, Doors, Ground Mesh, Shield and Building Seal.
Operating in over 80 countries worldwide, Rentokil can manage and resolve your residential or commercial pest control needs.
Pests can find numerous entry points into commercial buildings, and it's crucial to identify and seal these openings to prevent infestations. Here are some common entry points for pests and ways to seal them:
Gaps and cracks in exterior walls: Inspect the building's exterior for any gaps or cracks in the walls, especially around windows, doors, utility openings, and vents. Seal these openings using caulk or weatherstripping. For larger gaps, use expandable foam insulation.
Windows and doors: Ensure that all windows and doors have tight-fitting screens without any tears or gaps. Replace damaged screens and repair any damaged weatherstripping. Install door sweeps to seal the gap between the bottom of doors and the floor.
Utility penetrations: Pests can enter through openings created for utilities such as plumbing pipes, electrical conduits, and HVAC systems. Seal these gaps with appropriate materials like wire mesh, steel wool, or caulk. Use expanding foam to seal larger openings.
Foundation and crawl spaces: Examine the foundation for cracks or gaps where pests might gain entry. Seal these openings with mortar, cement, or expanding foam. Install vent covers or screens to prevent pests from entering crawl spaces.
Pipework and plumbing: Check for gaps around pipework, plumbing, and drains. Seal these openings with caulk or expanding foam. Install drain covers to prevent pests from accessing drains.
Loading docks and garage doors: These areas often have gaps around doors, loading bay doors, and dock levellers. Install weatherstripping or door sweeps to seal these gaps and prevent pest entry.
Regular inspections and ongoing maintenance are vital to identifying new entry points and promptly addressing them. It's recommended to consult with a professional pest control service or a building maintenance expert to develop a comprehensive pest management plan tailored to your specific commercial building.
Neglecting pest proofing in a commercial building can expose you to several risks and liabilities, including:
It is essential to prioritize pest proofing and take proactive measures to prevent infestations in your commercial building. Regular inspections, maintenance, and cooperation with professional pest control services can help mitigate these risks and liabilities, ensuring the safety of your property, occupants, and business reputation.