As the days grow shorter and temperatures start to drop, fall brings beautiful foliage, crisp air—and an influx of unwanted visitors. For pests like mice, squirrels, ants, and spiders, your home offers the perfect warm, sheltered environment to ride out the colder months.
For seasonal homeowners leaving their property vacant during fall, this can be a serious concern. An unmonitored home provides the perfect opportunity for pests to enter and multiply unnoticed, leading to costly repairs and unpleasant surprises when you return.
Here’s what you need to know about common fall pests and how to pest-proof your property before you head out for the season.
1. Mice
Mice can squeeze through gaps as small as a dime, making them one of the most common and frustrating fall pests. They chew through wires, contaminate food, and create nests in insulation.
Prevention Tips:
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Seal cracks and gaps around the foundation, windows, and doors.
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Store pantry items in airtight containers or remove them from the home entirely.
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Keep firewood at least 20 feet away from the house.
2. Squirrels
Squirrels may seem harmless outdoors, but once inside an attic, they can chew through wood, insulation, and electrical wiring. They often gain access through roof vents or damaged soffits.
Prevention Tips:
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Trim branches at least six feet away from your roofline.
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Install metal mesh over attic vents and chimneys.
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Inspect your roof for loose shingles or damaged flashing.
3. Ants
While ants are more active in summer, some species seek shelter indoors during the cooler months—especially near kitchens or bathrooms where water is available.
Prevention Tips:
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Eliminate standing water around sinks and tubs.
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Wipe down counters and floors to remove crumbs and spills.
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Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk.
4. Spiders
Most spiders are harmless, but they can be a nuisance—especially if they begin nesting inside. Fall is a common season for them to move indoors in search of warmth.
Prevention Tips:
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Vacuum regularly, especially in corners, basements, and attics.
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Remove webs promptly to discourage re-spinning.
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Seal cracks and gaps in siding, window frames, and baseboards.
5. How Regular Property Checks Can Help
Even with the best pest-proofing efforts, infestations can still occur—especially when a property is left vacant for weeks or months. That’s where home watch services make all the difference.
A professional home watch provider will:
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Check for droppings, nesting materials, or other signs of pests.
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Inspect vulnerable entry points for damage.
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Monitor for standing water or other conditions that attract pests.
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Arrange for pest control services if needed.
By catching infestations early, you can avoid major damage and costly extermination efforts.
Final Thoughts
Pest-proofing your property for fall is about more than just comfort—it’s about protecting your home’s structure, systems, and value. For seasonal homeowners, a vacant property can be especially vulnerable.
With proactive measures and regular check-ins from a trusted home watch service like HomeStead Property Watch, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is secure and pest-free all season long.
Ready to protect your home this fall? Contact us today to schedule your seasonal property inspection.
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