How to Spot Early Signs of Pest Infestation Before It’s Too Late

No homeowner or property manager likes surprises, especially when those surprises involve uninvited pests. What often starts as a tiny, barely noticeable sign can quickly turn into one of those full-blown pest infestations that cost time and money to fix. The good news is that with a little awareness, you can spot warning signs early and stay one step ahead.

Redfin collaborated with Pestcom Pest Management to share expert tips that can help from their team members Joseph L. Kondor and J. Kenny Daily. Whether you own a house in Columbus, OH or rent a townhome in Tampa, FL, keeping an eye out now can save a lot of trouble.

Look for the small things people tend to miss

Subtle physical changes around your home

Many early signs are so subtle that most people walk right past them. According to Joseph L. Kondor of Pestcom Pest Management, “One thing people miss a lot is fine sand or soil pushing up through cracks in concrete. That usually means pavement ants are tunneling underneath.” These tiny piles of dirt often go unnoticed, especially in driveways and along walkways.

Droppings and tiny specks

Kondor also points out that “small mouse droppings are another early sign, especially in kitchens, pantries, or garages.” Even a few droppings can indicate that rodents have already found a safe place to explore. In addition, “tiny black specks that look like ground pepper on walls, around windows, or in cupboards” may actually be droppings or stains left behind by flies or cockroaches.

Webs and nests that seem harmless

Similarly, J. Kenny Daily explains that people often overlook spider webs and nests. “Spider webs on eaves, in garage corners, and around windows often show there is a food source nearby,” he says. He adds that “small honeycomb-style nests under ledges, on eaves, or along fence lines point to wasp activity.” These signs may seem harmless at first, but they can be the first stage of ongoing pest infestations if ignored.

Read>> How to Get Rid of Roaches in Your Apartment or House

Focus on the areas most likely to show activity

High-risk areas inside the home

When checking your home, some spaces deserve extra attention. Inside, Kondor explains, “the kitchen and the garage usually show activity first because they offer food, shelter, and easy access points.” Daily supports this and adds that areas with moisture, such as “the laundry room, bathrooms, and the kitchen,” are also common problem spots.

Outdoor trouble zones

Outside, make sure to check the eaves and roofline. Kondor notes that they “often reveal the earliest signs, especially when spiders or wasps start nesting.” Taking a slow walk around the outside of your home every few weeks can help you catch changes early.

Seasonal changes can trigger new activity

Why timing matters

As the weather shifts, pests change their behavior. In the spring, Kondor shares that “many pests become more active and start moving around the property.” Daily adds that “rain and warming temperatures increase insect activity” and that clover mites, earwigs, and beetles are common during this time.

During the hot summer months, Daily warns of “a major rise in summer pests like wasp, hornet, and yellow jacket activity.” Then, as summer fades into fall, both experts agree that rodents and spiders begin searching for warmth. Kondor explains that “this is when they are more likely to move indoors,” which can quickly lead to serious pest infestations if no action is taken.

Seasonal pest activity at a glance

Simple DIY checks that make a big difference

Quick indoor inspections

You do not need expensive tools to get started. Kondor recommends “quick inspections under sinks, in pantries, and in other food storage areas.” Do a monthly quick sweep and look for droppings, chew marks, or unusual insect activity. He also suggests using “glue boards or sticky traps” in garages, under sinks, and in corners as an early warning system.

Outdoor maintenance that prevents entry

• Trim trees and bushes so they are at least one foot away from the home
• Keep branches from hanging over the roof
• Make sure windows/screens fit tightly and doors have good sweeps.
• Check garage door seals and bottom sweeps for gaps or light leaks.
• Ensure sprinklers don’t direct water at the foundation; excess moisture near the base of the home can attract earwigs, beetles, and other pests.
• Clear away leaves, pine needles, grass clippings, and other organic debris near the home.
• Keep weeds and tall grasses trimmed back
• These simple tasks create fewer hiding spots and entry points for pests, which directly supports long-term property protection and prevention.

When it’s time to call a professional

A timely professional pest inspection can help you catch a hidden infestation before it becomes costly or dangerous. Sometimes, prevention and basic checks are not enough, some situations demand professional help:

• If you spot public-health pests like cockroaches, heavy fly activity, or bed bugs. Kondor emphasizes that these require expert attention.
• If you’ve seen any rodent droppings or evidence of rodents (chewed wiring, gnaw marks, nests), especially in walls or hidden corners.
• If signs persist even after you clean up, seal obvious entry points, and use traps. As Daily puts it, “If any signs of insects or rodents show up, it is a good idea to call a local pest professional.”

Final thoughts

For property managers and homeowners alike, acting fast protects not just your property, but also its long-term home value and safety. By learning to recognize the early clues and making regular inspections part of your routine, you can stop small problems long before they grow into costly and stressful situations.

Early detection doesn’t just save money; it protects your health, your tenants, and the long-term value of your real estate.

The post How to Spot Early Signs of Pest Infestation Before It’s Too Late appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.