Three Overlooked Spots That Could Let Rodents In

The National Pest Management Association shares important prevention tips during Rodent Awareness Week

FAIRFAX, Va., Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A torn food package in the pantry, droppings beneath the sink or a gnawed box in the basement may be signs that rodents have moved in. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is recognizing Rodent Awareness Week, Oct. 18-24, 2026, to help homeowners spot warning signs, understand the risks and know when to call a professional.

According to an NPMA survey conducted online by The Harris Poll, only 40% of Americans take preventive measures to keep rodents out of their homes. Once inside, they can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria like salmonella and damage drywall, insulation and electrical wiring.

Mice can squeeze through openings the size of a dime, while rats can fit through holes the size of a quarter. NPMA highlights three entry points homeowners should inspect:

• Garage: Check for gaps beneath the garage door and replace worn weather stripping.
• Attic: Inspect where siding and corner trim meet, and seal gaps or repair damage.
• Basement: Check around pipes, cables and HVAC lines, and seal gaps with caulk or steel wool.

NPMA recommends storing food securely, covering garbage cans, limiting outdoor food sources and removing clutter. Watch for rodent signs, like droppings, chewed wires or nesting materials, and contact a qualified pest control professional.

Explore NPMA's Rodents Revealed, What Grows There and Out of Sight. For prevention tips and help finding a qualified pest control professional, visit PestWorld.org.

About the National Pest Management Association    
The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok and YouTube and @PestWorldOfficial on Instagram.

Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of NPMA between August 27 – August 29, 2026, among 1,096 U.S. adults ages 18+. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, please contact [email protected].

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SOURCE National Pest Management Association