Why Every Home Inspector Recommends Early Detection and Action
As a home inspector, one of the most common, and often overlooked, issues I encounter is pest infestations, especially rodents and bats. Many homeowners underestimate the risks and costs associated with these invasions, often delaying action until the problem becomes worse. In this blog, I’ll explain why ignoring rodent and bat infestations can be risky and costly, and how a thorough home inspection can protect your investment.
A group of bats hanging in an attic
Health Hazards Posed by Rodents and Bats
Rodents and bats aren’t just nuisances; they can pose serious health risks. Rodents, such as mice and rats, are known carriers of diseases like hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonella. Their droppings and urine can contaminate surfaces, putting your family at risk. Bats, while ecologically beneficial, can carry rabies and histoplasmosis—a respiratory disease caused by inhaling spores from bat droppings. Ignoring these pests allows them to multiply, increasing the risk of disease transmission in your home.
Structural Damage and Safety Concerns
Besides health concerns, rodent and bat infestations can cause significant structural damage. Rodents chew through electrical wiring, wooden beams, insulation, and even plumbing pipes, which can lead to house fires, water leaks, and costly repairs. Bats often roost in attics, leaving behind guano that can accumulate over time. This waste is not only hazardous to health but can also damage insulation and wood, resulting in expensive repairs.
Financial Costs of Ignoring Infestations
Postponing pest control has hidden costs. The longer rodents and bats remain in your home, the more damage they cause. Small repairs can quickly escalate into major projects—what starts as a tiny entry point chewed by a mouse can lead to a full electrical overhaul. Clean-up and removal of bat guano can cost anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars, especially if insulation needs replacing or structural repairs are necessary. Additionally, if the infestation is discovered during a pre-sale home inspection, it can delay or prevent the sale, leading to costly last-minute repairs.
Mouse droppings and disturbed insulation in a basement storage room
The Role of the Home Inspector
While it is outside the scope of an inspection, the inspectors at HomePro Inspections will identify subtle signs of pest activity that homeowners might miss. During an inspection, we look for droppings, nesting materials, chewed wires, entry points, and signs of bat roosts. Early detection helps homeowners prevent infestations from getting worse. This not only protects your health and safety but also saves you money over time. Read our customer reviews
Prevention and Action Steps
Arrange regular pest inspections to catch pest problems early.
Seal all potential entry points, including gaps around doors, windows, and rooflines.
Keep your attic, basement, and crawl spaces clean and dry.
Hire pest control professionals for safe and effective removal.
Summary
Ignoring rodent and bat infestations can lead to serious health, home, and financial issues. As a home inspector, I encourage homeowners to stay vigilant, schedule regular inspections, and address pest problems promptly. Your home is one of your most valuable assets—protect it by keeping pests out for good.
At HomePro Inspections, we are trained to identify these issues during a home inspection. Any problems found are documented and recommended for resolution by qualified professionals.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule a home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN areas. Contact us today at (507) 202-8942, email us, or use our online “Schedule Now” feature to book an appointment.