After a flood or natural disaster, you may find yourself dealing with a lot of damage and cleanup. And it is important that in your cleanup, you don’t overlook the potential pest problems that can arise after natural disasters. Flooding, heavy storms, or earthquakes can drive pests like rodents, insects, and even snakes into homes as they look for shelter and food. Water damage and structural changes in homes can also create new opportunities for pests to enter, making it essential to inspect the house thoroughly after the dust settles.

One of the first things to inspect is the foundation of the home. Floodwaters and shifting ground can open cracks and crevices that weren’t there before. These openings become entry points for pests like ants, cockroaches, or even larger invaders like rats or mice. To inspect your foundation, walk around the outside of the home and check for visible gaps, especially around doors, windows, and where the walls meet the ground. And don’t forget to check the roofing too since damaged roofs, loose shingles, and open vents can also serve as future entry points.

Inside the home, water-damaged areas are prime spots for pests. Standing water or dampness left behind from a flood is like a magnet for insects like mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches. Mold can also attract certain insects, and wood that has been weakened by water damage might draw termites or carpenter ants. Inspect all the rooms that were affected by water, being especially vigilant of basements, crawl spaces, and attics where moisture could puddle. Any wet wood or materials should be replaced, and it’s important to dry out the space completely to reduce the chances of a pest infestation.

Another thing to consider is food and waste that may have been exposed during a disaster. Floodwaters can bring in debris and contaminated materials, which pests will eat or nest in. Be sure to clean up any spoiled food or garbage as quickly as possible, and keep an eye on outdoor garbage bins, which might have been disturbed or flooded.

Even though there are many steps homeowners can take on their own, sometimes it’s best to get professional help, especially if the pest situation is already extensive. After a disaster, it’s not uncommon for pests to come in larger numbers, and they might be harder to get rid of with DIY methods. In these cases, using a commercial exterminator in St. George is the preferred plan of action.  Professionals can assess the situation, identify the specific pests involved, and use treatments that are designed to handle post-disaster infestations.

In the aftermath of a flood or disaster, pests might not be the first thing on anyone’s mind, but it's worth it to take a little extra time to inspect for them before putting your home back together. If needed, commercial pest control services are available to handle bigger infestations and will the home is pest-free and safe. By having due diligence and staying ahead of a bigger problem homeowners can protect their homes from pests after a disaster.