Auckland’s mild climate and coastal location make it home to a range of household pests. Some are a nuisance. Others can cause real structural damage or health problems if they are not dealt with. Here is what you are most likely to come across.
Rats and mice
This is probably the most common call we get. Auckland has a significant rat population, particularly the roof rat, which loves ceiling cavities. They are excellent climbers and can get into homes through very small gaps around pipes and roof joins.
Signs you have a problem:
- Scratching or scurrying sounds in the ceiling, especially at night
- Droppings in the kitchen, pantry or along skirting boards
- Gnaw marks on packaging, cables or woodwork
Rats chew through electrical wiring, which is a fire risk. Do not ignore the signs.
Cockroaches
The German cockroach is the most common species in Auckland homes. They prefer kitchens and bathrooms, love warmth and moisture, and are most active at night. If you are seeing them during the day, the infestation is already significant.
Wasps
Wasps are a serious problem in Auckland, particularly in summer. Common wasps nest in wall cavities, roof spaces, under decks and in the ground. A nest left through the summer can grow to tens of thousands of wasps. Do not attempt to remove a nest yourself.
When to call a professional
For most pest problems, call sooner rather than later. A small mouse problem is a day’s work. A well-established infestation that has been in place for months is significantly harder and more expensive to resolve.
We had a job in Ellerslie where the owners had been dealing with a rat problem with hardware store baits for six months. By the time we arrived, there were entry points throughout the roof space and sub-floor. Earlier intervention would have saved them a lot of time and money.
What does pest control cost?
A standard treatment for a three-bedroom house starts from $150. We will give you a clear quote before we start anything.