6 Signs You May Have a Pest Problem

Your home should be a place of comfort and pride, not a haven for pests. Unfortunately, the cold winter Iowa months often mean pests like ants, spiders, and mice can find their way into your home, disrupting your peace and causing trouble for your property. But how can you tell if you have an infestation? Continue reading for six common warning signs that you should take immediate action on.

An undisturbed spider web is a sign of a pest problem.

1. Strange Noises — Especially at Night

Do you hear scratching, rustling, or squeaking noises in the walls, attic, or ceiling? These sounds can be caused by rodents like mice or rats, which become most active after dark. These pesky houseguests can cause damage to your home by chewing on wires, which is a major fire hazard.

2. Droppings and Damage

Rodents and insects typically leave behind clues when they’ve been making themselves at home somewhere. Watch for:

Rodent droppings: Small, dark, pellet-like feces around food storage areas, under sinks, or in drawers.
Gnaw marks: Chewed up food packaging, wood, or wires.
Cockroach droppings: Tiny black specs similar to coffee grounds, often find in dark corners or near food prep areas.
Ant trails: You might notice small piles of soil, wood shavings, or food crumbs near ant entry points.

3. Frequent Insect Sightings

A single ant or spider might not seem alarming, but if you see them regularly, it could mean you have a hidden infestation. Spiders are often drawn to homes with other insects they feed on, so their presence could signal a larger problem.

4. Unpleasant Odors

Pests can leave distinct smells behind when they’ve been somewhere.

Rodents: A strong, ammonia-like smell from urine or their nests.
Cockroaches: An oily or musty odor that grows as their numbers do.
Dead pests: If a rodent or other pest dies in your walls or attic, it can create a foul smell that’s hard to ignore.

5. Webs, Nests, or Holes

Look for holes or cracks around baseboards, walls, or foundation points, as these are common entry points or active nesting areas for pests. Rodents often build nests using shredded paper, fabric, or insulation, while spiders will go to work building webs in corners, closets, or basements where they can live undisturbed.

6. Lawn or Garden Damage

Centipedes, millipedes, and ants often thrive in overwatered or decaying areas (like piles of leaves) outside your home. If you notice excessive pest activity indoors, it could be connected to a larger issue outside.

Act Fast to Contain a Pest Problem

Pests don’t just go away — they multiply. What starts as a few here or there can quickly escalate into a full-blown infestation.

At Tiger Pride Lawn Care, we advise clients to treat these problems proactively with ongoing pest treatments throughout the year. Don’t let pests take control of your home — contact us today for a consultation.