Frequently Asked Questions

Common signs include droppings near food or along baseboards, gnaw marks on wood or wiring, scratching in walls or ceilings at night, and greasy rub marks along walls. Rats leave larger, capsule-shaped droppings than mice.

Rodents follow warmth, food, and shelter. As nights cool in late fall, rats, mice, and squirrels move from yards and trees into attics, garages, and wall voids, where homes and businesses offer protection through winter.

Exclusion means sealing every opening rodents use to get inside, including gaps around rooflines, vents, pipes, garage doors, and foundations. Steel mesh and metal flashing hold up against chewing far better than spray foam alone.

Trapping removes the rodents already inside, but it rarely solves the problem by itself. Without sealing entry points, new rats simply replace the ones caught. Lasting control combines removal, exclusion, and sanitation of affected areas.

Squirrels climb trees or downspouts, then chew through weak spots in soffits, fascia boards, roof vents, and gable vents. Legacy Pest and Wildlife sees this in Irving, Texas when overhanging branches give easy roof access.

Rodents chew electrical wiring, which can create a fire hazard, and they tear up insulation, ductwork, and stored belongings. Their droppings and urine contaminate surfaces, while nesting material and odors can linger after they leave.

Yes, rodent droppings and urine can carry bacteria and viruses, including hantavirus and salmonella. Never sweep or vacuum dry droppings. Wet the area with disinfectant first, wear gloves, and consider professional cleanup for heavy contamination.

Timing depends on the structure's size, the number of entry points, and how established the activity is. Many homes are sealed within a day or two, followed by monitoring visits to confirm rodents are gone.

Any business that stores food, receives deliveries, or serves the public benefits from regular service. Restaurants, warehouses, offices, retail stores, medical facilities, schools, and apartment communities face pressure from rodents and insects throughout the year.

Most businesses do well with monthly service, while restaurants and food handlers often need more frequent visits. Legacy Pest and Wildlife sets each schedule based on your property, risk level, and operations in Irving, Texas.

Late fall is when many businesses finalize budgets and vendor contracts. Setting up a program now means service starts on day one of the new year, right when rodent pressure peaks during the coldest weeks.

Pest activity is a common health code violation for food establishments. A commercial program with routine treatments, rodent monitoring, and written service records helps you prevent problems and show inspectors that pest control is managed.

Yes. Once rodents or wildlife are removed, we take out contaminated insulation, sanitize the attic space, and install fresh material. This restores energy efficiency and removes the scent trails that often attract new pests inside.

Look for mud tubes on foundation walls, discarded wings near windows, hollow-sounding wood, and bubbling paint. Swarms of winged insects in spring are another clue. A professional inspection confirms activity and identifies the termite species.

We use targeted, environmentally responsible treatments and apply them carefully around people and pets. Our technicians explain any precautions before work begins, such as keeping pets away from treated areas until products have dried completely.