Preventing Pests When Moving into a New Home: Smart Steps for a Pest-Free Start

Moving into a new home is exciting, but it’s easy to overlook one critical step—making sure you’re not sharing your space with unwanted pests. Whether your home is newly built or pre-owned, pests can find their way in quickly if you’re not prepared. Here’s how to protect your new home from day one.

Why Pest Prevention Matters Before You Unpack

Once you move in and start filling your home with furniture and boxes, it becomes harder to spot pests or signs of infestation. Taking proactive steps before and during your move can save you from dealing with bigger pest problems later.

• Schedule a Pre-Move Pest Inspection: Even if the home looks clean, there could be hidden pest issues. Schedule a professional pest inspection before moving day. A thorough inspection can uncover:
  • Termites
  • Rodents
  • Ant colonies
  • Roaches

Pest inspections can uncover signs of previous infestations. Catching these problems early gives you time to treat them before you move your belongings inside.

• Clean the Home Thoroughly: Before bringing in boxes or furniture, do a deep clean of the entire house, including:
  • Cabinets and drawers
  • Behind appliances
  • Attics and basements
  • Garage corners

Cleaning removes food crumbs, nesting materials, and other attractants that can draw pests.

• Seal Entry Points: Walk around your home and look for cracks, gaps, or openings where pests could sneak in:
  • Check around windows and doors
  • Inspect pipes and vents
  • Look for gaps in the foundation or siding
  • Seal small openings with caulk or weather stripping and consider adding door sweeps to block pests from slipping underneath doors. 

• Check Moving Boxes and Furniture: Pests like spiders, ants, and roaches can hide in cardboard boxes or furniture stored in garages or storage units. Before moving items into your home:
  • Inspect boxes and wipe them down.
  • Shake out rugs, blankets, and linens.
  • Check furniture for insect activity, especially if it’s been in storage.
• Keep Outdoor Areas Tidy: Your yard can be a highway for pests heading toward your home. Minimize the attraction by:
  • Storing firewood away from the house.
  • Keeping shrubs and trees trimmed.
  • Clearing piles of leaves or debris.
  • Cleaning gutters to prevent moisture buildup.

A clean yard reduces the chance of pests finding a way inside.

• Consider Preventative Pest Treatment: Alexandria Pest Services, offers move-in treatments with future ongoing treatment plan to create a protective barrier in and around your home. This is a great way to start off pest-free, especially in areas where ants, spiders, and roaches are common.

Start Strong and Stay Protected with Alexandria Pest Services

Preventing pests when moving into a new home is all about being proactive. A little time spent inspecting, cleaning, and sealing can save you from costly pest problems down the road. Starting with a clean, protected home will give you peace of mind as you settle in and enjoy your new space.

Count on Alexandria Pest Services to Get Rid of Your Pest Problem in Northern Virginia!

Concerned about household pests in your home? To arrange an inspection and begin your journey to a pest-free environment, get in touch with Alexandria Pest Services right now. Call us at 703-923-0925 to schedule a professional pest evaluation in Burke, Springfield, Alexandria, Fairfax, and throughout Northern Virginia. We can help you get rid of these invaders in your home or office! Contact us today to learn more.