Any pet food stored in garage or porch areas should be in a
rodent-proof container. This includes bird and squirrel food!
All garbage cans should have tight fitting covers.
Store pipes, lumber, firewood, crates, boxes, etc. off the ground to
deter rodents from using these as nesting places.
Keep water sources down to a minimum by repairing leaks around hose
bibs and air conditioning drip lines.
LANDSCAPED AREAS
Dense vegetation is a conducive area for rodents to nest.
Separate the canopy of densely growing plants from each other and
from buildings by a distance of 2 feet or more to make it more
difficult for rats to move between them.
Trim all tree limbs within 3 feet of the roof.
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
Repair or replace damaged ventilation screen around the foundation
and under eaves.
Provide a tight fitting cover for the crawl space.
Seal all openings around pipes, cables and wires that enter through
walls and foundation.
Be sure all windows that can be opened are screened and that the
screens are in good condition.
Cover all chimneys with a spark arrester.
Make sure internal screens on roof and attic air vents are in good
repair.
Cover rooftop plumbing vent pipes in excess of 2 inches in diameter
with screens over their tops.
Make sure all exterior doors are tight fitting and weatherproofed at
the bottom.
Seal gaps beneath garage doors with a gasket or weather-stripping.
Install self-closing exits or screening to clothes dryer vents to
the outside.
Remember that pet doors into the house or garage provide an easy
entrance for rodents.
Keep side doors to the garage closed, especially at night.
Rodent-Proofing Your Home