Everything You Need to Know About Rodents
What Are the Common
Rodent Species?
Rodents are one of the most problematic household and commercial pests in South
Africa. They pose significant health risks, contaminate food, cause structural damage
and electrical faults, and can multiply rapidly. Recognising the main species helps in
identifying the correct treatment approach.
The most common rodent pests include:
House Mice – small, curious, and the most common rodents found in homes
Norway Rats – large, burrowing rodents that thrive near drainage systems and basements
Roof Rats – agile climbers that nest in ceilings, roofs, attics and high structures
Where Rodents Are Typically Found
Different species favour different environments:
House mice prefer kitchens, pantries, garages, storerooms and interior cavities
Norway rats burrow outdoors and move into buildings through drains, broken foundations or ground-level gaps
Roof rats run along roofs, trees, rafters, beams and electrical lines to access attics or ceilings
Rodents follow food, warmth and shelter, which makes residential homes, food
businesses, warehouses and office parks especially vulnerable.
Why Rodents Are
a Problem
Rodents are far more than a nuisance. They can:
Spread serious diseases through droppings, urine and bites
Contaminate food and stored goods
Cause electrical fires by gnawing on wiring
Damage insulation, packaging materials and structural timbers
Reproduce quickly, turning a small issue into a major infestation
Even a few rodents often indicate a larger problem nearby.
How to Identify
Rodent Activity
Droppings around cupboards, drawers, food storage, behind appliances
Scratching or movement noises in ceilings and walls
Grease marks along skirting boards and wall edges
Chewed food packaging, wiring or piping
Burrows in gardens, around foundations, or near drains
Strong musky odour in confined spaces
Finding one rodent usually means more are present and hiding.
Preventing Rodent Infestations
To reduce the chances of rodent activity:
Seal external gaps around plumbing, foundations, vents and doors
Store food in airtight containers and clean spills immediately
Clear clutter in garages, storerooms, cupboards and basements
Trim vegetation and remove debris close to buildings
Repair leaking pipes and eliminate moisture
Secure bins and waste storage areas
Use proper drainage covers and protect entry points
Prevention is always cheaper than dealing with a full infestation.
Rodents reproduce quickly and often hide deep in walls, ceilings, drains or storerooms , making DIY treatments ineffective. A specialist inspection identifies entry points,
nesting sites and the full scale of the problem
Professionals use targeted, safe and compliant solutions that eliminate rodents and prevent re-infestation.