With rodents (especially rats) on the rise in the Okanagan, we are seeing ever-increasing numbers of Okanagan attics (and other areas) severely soiled by feces and urine. As most people know, rodents’ droppings may contain Hantavirus and other pathogens, putting you and your family at risk. Ridding your home of these unwanted guests is of primary importance.

If you’ve ever wondered what exactly goes down when tackling a rodent infestation… You’re in the right place!

Step 1: Bye, bye rodents

Remove the rodents! (Duh!) Before we move ahead with anything else, we need to make sure all animals (alive or otherwise) are removed from the space. For rodents like mice and rats, snap traps (as well as sticky traps sometimes) will be strategically placed throughout the infested area (attic, crawlspace, etc.), and these traps will be monitored until activity ceases. For other rodents such as squirrels, raccoons, and packrats – live trapping is required as these species are protected under ‘Schedule B’ with the Ministry of Environment. So, for these intruders, live traps will be set out, and our technicians will monitor the space, and relocate as necessary until all the rodents are caught.

This step also includes sealing off any obvious points of entry to prevent re-infestation. This step is crucial, as, without it, there is a good chance a new family of pests will move right in as soon as the current inhabitants are gone. Our trained pest management specialists know what to look for in these situations, and have ample experience sussing out access points in your home. Once these are located and sealed up, we’re all set to move on to clean-up!

Step 2: Bye, bye poop!

Remove the evidence! Time to erase any signs the rodents were there – yes this is the sh*tty part (LOL). In addition to feces, any nesting material, and debris from gaining access to the area (i.e., sawdust etc.) will be removed, and then the complete area will be vacuumed. This step includes the use of a HEPA vacuum (High-Efficiency Particulate Air). HEPA vacuums differ from conventional vacuums in that they contain filters that are capable of trapping extremely small, micron-sized particles. A true HEPA filter can trap 99.97 percent of all airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns.

Step 3: Hello, CLEAN!

Time to disinfect! To do this we administer Vital Oxide – usually via a fogging machine, to reach every nook and cranny possible! In extreme cases, Vital Oxide may be administered via spray as well, to areas that were more soiled. Vital Oxide is an EPA registered hospital disinfectant cleaner, mold inhibitor and odour eliminator. Vital Oxide kills 99.999% of bacteria including E.coli and Salmonella in 60 seconds.

Now, if we’re dealing with an attic, where soiled insulation is an issue, then replacing that ruined insulation will also be paramount. Luckily, as we have both an insulation division as well as an integrated pest management division, your attic is in the best possible hands from beginning to end of handling your attic infestation. In addition to the steps mentioned above, we will remove the existing soiled insulation, down to the vapour barrier; and once the rodent cleanup is completed, we will reinstall fresh insulation, ensuring your attic insulation is up to code – with the required R50 thermal barrier.

To book an attic or crawlspace inspection today and/or receive a free quote, contact our head office at 250-826-8430 or by email at info@assuredinsulation.com.