Mice inspection and control

What are house mice?

House mice are small brown or grey rodents that live comfortably around buildings. They are mainly active after dark and can nest in wall cavities, roof spaces, cupboards and stored materials. Sounds in a roof are not proof of mice, so correct identification matters.

Signs they may be present

• Small, dark droppings in cupboards, storage areas or along wall edges.
• Fresh gnawing on food packets, timber, insulation or cables.
• Scratching, scuffling or gnawing sounds, often at night.
• Greasy rub marks, small openings or worn paths along skirting boards.
• Nests made from shredded paper, cardboard, fabric or insulation.

What you can do yourself

• Store food, grain and pet food in sturdy containers with close-fitting lids.
• Clean crumbs and spills, empty bins and remove pet food overnight.
• Pick up fallen fruit, contain compost and reduce undisturbed clutter.
• Repair dripping taps and note gaps around doors, pipes and wall junctions.
• If using traps or a domestic rodent product, follow the label exactly and keep it away from food, children, pets and wildlife.
• Wear gloves to clean and disinfect affected surfaces, discard contaminated food and wash your hands afterwards.

What to leave alone and when to call

Do not leave loose bait in accessible areas, mix products or use more than the label directs. Do not touch damaged wiring. Avoid sealing every opening while mice are still active, as animals may be trapped inside.

Arrange professional help when activity keeps returning, involves a roof or subfloor, spreads across several rooms or creates a risk around food, children, pets or wildlife.

How we investigate and treat it

1. 1

   Confirm the likely pest

   We assess droppings, damage and travel patterns, and rule out rats or wildlife where possible.

2. 2

   Trace the activity

   Accessible cupboards, appliances, storage areas, roof spaces, subfloors and the exterior are checked for routes, entry gaps and nesting areas.

3. 3

   Choose the control

   The plan may use trapping, secure monitoring or registered baiting suited to the building and its occupants.

4. 4

   Proof and follow up

   Once activity is under control, practical gaps are sealed or recommended for repair, then the result is checked.