Identify signs without disturbing them
Record droppings, gnaw marks, scratching, odour, nesting material and where they were found. Take photographs only when safe and keep children and pets away from affected areas. Do not handle droppings, traps, dead rodents or nesting material with bare hands, and do not sweep or vacuum suspected contaminated material before the appropriate advice is confirmed.
Arrange pest and property assessment
A qualified pest professional can assess the likely pest, access points, affected areas and treatment options. Tell the landlord, agent, strata manager or property owner where relevant. Repairs to gaps, doors, roof spaces, plumbing or building defects are separate from cleaning and may need another trade.
Protect food, belongings and occupants
Store food in sealed containers, remove accessible rubbish and keep pets away from bait or treated areas. Follow all preparation, ventilation and re-entry instructions for any pest treatment. Do not place homemade poison or mix cleaning chemicals in an attempt to solve the infestation.
Clean only after the risk is controlled
After the pest and contamination plan is confirmed, a cleaning scope can address suitable accessible surfaces, floors or odour-related residue. Cleaning does not guarantee pest removal, repair entry points or make hazardous contamination safe without the right assessment. Provide the Sydney property type, affected rooms, access and previous treatment when requesting help.
