7 Common Pests New Homeowners Encounter and Why

Purchasing your first home is exciting, but it also comes with challenges you might not have expected—like dealing with pests! Whether you’re moving from the city to the suburbs or vice versa, every home has its quirks. Many new homeowners encounter unexpected critters, sometimes left behind by previous owners. We’ve put together a list of the most common pests new homeowners often come across and provided some tips on how to handle them.

7 Common Pests New Homeowners Might Face (And How to Handle Them)

1. Mice and Rats

If you’re making the switch from city life to a suburban or rural area, you might find that the rodents you encounter are different than what you’re used to. City dwellers tend to see rats, while suburban homeowners often deal with mice. No matter where you’re moving, know that pests like these are part of the experience, but experts can help you prevent infestations and handle any issues you may face.

2. Ants

Ants are one of the most common pests, especially in the Midwest. But not all ants are the same! While a trail of tiny ants can be unsettling, carpenter ants can cause significant damage to your home by nesting in wood structures like window frames. If you notice an influx of ants, especially large ones, it’s important to address the issue quickly. Regular bait traps may not work for certain types, so it’s always best to call in the experts.

3. Stink Bugs

If you’ve moved into a home near rural areas or farmland, you may encounter stink bugs and other “overwintering pests” like Asian beetles or boxelder bugs. These insects seek shelter inside homes during colder months after being displaced from crops like corn and soybeans. Newer homes built in former farm fields are often more prone to these types of invasions.

4. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are often associated with poor sanitation, but they can appear in even the cleanest homes. If you’re moving into a previously lived-in home, ask about the pest history and be diligent about cleanliness. Keeping your home spotless will go a long way in preventing a cockroach infestation.

5. Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are one of the most persistent pests. They can survive for months without feeding, so even if a home has been vacant for some time, it doesn’t mean you’re safe. When inspecting your new home, check for signs of bed bugs, especially in the bedrooms and other places where you’ll be resting.

6. Pantry Pests

Pantry pests like Indian meal moths and flour beetles can invade improperly stored food. If the previous owners weren’t meticulous about food storage, you might find yourself dealing with these unwanted guests. To prevent this, clean your pantry thoroughly before moving in and store food in airtight containers.

7. Termites

Termites are one of the most destructive pests, and unfortunately, many real estate transactions don’t require termite inspections. These pests are prevalent in areas like Chicagoland and Wisconsin, and the damage they cause can be expensive to repair. Be sure to schedule a termite inspection from a certified professional to get peace of mind and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Prevention is Key

The best way to avoid a pest problem is through prevention. Our Healthy Home Maintenance Program provides year-round protection for your home against common household pests. It’s not just about pest control—it’s about giving you peace of mind. And if you upgrade to our HHMP+, you’ll get added protection against termites with the eco-friendly Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System, plus annual termite inspections. Protect your home, your family, and your investment with continuous protection against pests all year long.

Did You Know We Have Multiple Locations?

With multiple branches, we’re able to serve a wide area! Our service radius extends about 50 miles from each of our office locations, which means if you have rental properties, second homes, or even relatives living in different areas, we might be able to lend a hand. Let us know how we can help with all your pest control needs!