With autumn now in full flow, the temperature decrease can lead several different types of common commercial and domestic pests to look for shelter. But what are the most common types of pests in autumn? And why is pest control in autumn so important?

Why is pest control in autumn so important?

There are a number of reasons why professional pest control is important in the autumn months. These include:

Increasing number of pests seeking shelter- The colder, wetter autumn weather naturally drives many pests indoors in search of warmth, food, and a place to hibernate or nest. When pests invade your home or your commercial property, they can cause a wide range of damage to the building itself, and potentially harm human health. Without proper pest control, infestations can grow, becoming harder and more expensive to manage later on.

Prevention of property damage- Some pests, particularly rodents like rats and mice, can cause significant damage if they get inside a home or building. They often gnaw on wood, insulation, wires, and even pipes. Such damage can lead to electrical hazards, leaks, and structural problems, which are both inconvenient and costly to repair. As a result, ensuring that pest control measures are in place in the autumn, can help to prevent these pests from settling inside, and causing damage.

Health and hygiene concerns- Many pests can pose health risks. Rodents and insects can carry harmful bacteria and diseases that contaminate food, surfaces, and air. Rodents, for example, can spread salmonella and hantavirus. Proper pest control during the autumn months helps to reduce these risks, keeping homes safe and sanitary.

Long-term cost savings- Addressing pest problems early in autumn can save money in the long run. This is because, if left unchecked, pests are likely to breed and multiply through the season and into winter, leading to larger infestations. Early pest control prevents this from happening, making it less costly than dealing with an established infestation later on.

Peace of mind- Beyond practical reasons, pest control gives peace of mind. Knowing that there are preventative measures in place and that common pests are kept at bay allows for a more relaxed and comfortable home environment.

What are the most common autumn pests to watch out for?

There are a number of specific pests that can be especially problematic in the autumn months. These include: 

Rodents (rats and mice)- As temperatures fall, rats and mice are some of the first animals to seek shelter in warm places. Both species are resourceful and can squeeze through surprisingly small openings to get inside buildings. Once inside, they can cause significant structural damage and pose health risks due to their droppings and urine. Signs of a rodent problem include droppings, gnaw marks, scratching noises, and chewed food packaging.

Cluster flies- Cluster flies are common in the UK during autumn, often entering homes to hibernate through the colder months. Unlike house flies, they are slower-moving, and they tend to gather in large numbers. They generally cluster around windows or other areas where sunlight enters, making them easy to spot. Although they don’t cause harm, their presence can be a nuisance, especially in large numbers.

Wasps- By autumn, wasp colonies are at their peak size, often making wasps more aggressive as food sources dwindle. They are likely to seek out sugary foods and may become a nuisance if they enter homes or outdoor areas in search of sustenance. Additionally, queen wasps begin to look for sheltered places to hibernate over winter, and this can lead to more encounters with them indoors.

Choose Wipeout UK for your pest control in autumn

Here at Wipeout UK, our team have the expertise, skills, tools and techniques to provide effective pest control all year round, including in the autumn months. Whether your property is a domestic or commercial building, we are the tea you can count on for exceptional pest control results. Why not get in touch today to find out more about how we can help?