What to describe first
Say where droppings are fresh, what time noises happen, and whether activity is in a kitchen, attic, garage, crawl space, shed, restaurant, or warehouse. If pets are reacting to a wall or cabinet, mention that too.
Entry points are the main issue
Mice and rats can use garage-door gaps, utility penetrations, crawl-space vents, siding gaps, porch voids, and holes around pipes. A trap may catch a rodent, but the call should still cover how the animal entered and whether more activity is likely.
Richmond rodent pressure by property type
Older houses, student rentals, restaurant storage, outbuildings, horse-country edges, and homes near wooded lots can all create different rodent conversations. Stored bird seed, pet food, cardboard, feed, and cluttered garages are common details to mention.
Indoor poison can create new problems
Do not assume poison is the best first step inside a wall, kitchen, or attic. Odor, pet safety, and inaccessible dead rodents can become a bigger headache. Call before making the problem harder to inspect.
Common questions
Is one mouse a reason to call?
One sighting can point to an entry route or nest. Calling early is easier than waiting for droppings to spread.
Should I seal holes right away?
Ask first if you are hearing active movement. Timing matters.