Unwanted pests can turn a dream home into a nightmare. Whether you’re renting or buying, checking your new home for pests before move-in day is a crucial step that many people overlook. Infestations can lead to health risks, property damage, and the cost of professional extermination—not to mention the stress of unpacking into an unsanitary environment.
At United Local Movers, we’ve seen the difference early inspections can make in our clients’ relocation experiences. Let’s break down how to identify pest problems early and what steps you can take to address them.
Common Household Pests to Watch Out For
Each region in the U.S. has its own pest problems, but the most common culprits include:
- Ants: Often found in kitchens and bathrooms, especially during warmer months.
- Cockroaches: Thrive in humid, dark environments and are attracted to food residue.
- Rodents: Mice and rats can squeeze into tiny cracks and nest in attics or walls.
- Termites: Especially problematic in southern states, termites can silently damage wood structures.
- Spiders: While most are harmless, their presence may signal insect prey in the home.
- Bed bugs: Difficult to detect and eliminate once present, especially in multi-unit housing.
Identifying these pests before moving in can save time, money, and significant discomfort down the line.
Signs Your New Home May Have Pests
Whether you’re doing a walkthrough or have just picked up the keys, here are red flags to watch for:
- Droppings in cabinets, behind appliances, or along baseboards
- Chewed wires or gnawed wood around door frames or attic spaces
- Dead insects in window tracks or corners
- Musty or ammonia-like odors, especially near pantries or under sinks
- Grease marks or dark smudges along walls or baseboards (common with rodents)
- Live sightings of bugs, especially during daylight
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to act before bringing your belongings inside.
Steps to Check for Pests Before Moving In
1. Conduct a Thorough Visual Inspection
Walk through every room, paying close attention to corners, storage areas, attics, and crawlspaces. Look behind large appliances, inside cabinets, and under sinks. Use a flashlight to check dim areas.
2. Hire a Licensed Pest Inspector
If you’re buying the home, this is often part of the pre-purchase inspection. If renting, you may want to pay for an independent pest check or ask your landlord to provide one. Professional inspectors can detect signs that are easy to miss.
3. Ask the Right Questions
- When was the property last treated for pests?
- Has there been a history of infestation?
- Are there current contracts with a pest control company?
Transparency from the seller or landlord is key, and their answers will help you determine next steps.
4. Check the Exterior
Inspect the foundation for cracks or gaps. Look for signs of burrowing, termite tunnels, or wasp nests under eaves and in gutters. Make sure all vents and crawlspaces are properly screened.
5. Look for Water Damage
Pests are drawn to moisture. Check for leaky pipes, water stains on ceilings, or soggy areas in basements or bathrooms. Fixing leaks can eliminate pest attractants.
What to Do If You Find Pests
If You’re Renting:
- Document everything with photos and video
- Notify your landlord or property manager immediately
- Request written confirmation of pest control treatment before move-in
- Consider withholding move-in until the issue is resolved (check your local tenant laws)
If You’re Buying:
- Discuss remediation with your real estate agent before closing
- Request that the seller pay for professional pest control
- In some cases, you may renegotiate your offer or request credits at closing
Preventing Future Infestations
Once you’ve ensured your new home is pest-free, take steps to keep it that way:
- Seal cracks around windows, doors, and utility lines
- Store food in airtight containers
- Take out trash regularly and clean crumbs and spills
- Keep pet food sealed and off the floor
- Trim bushes and trees away from the home’s exterior
- Schedule routine pest control maintenance
Being proactive pays off—especially if you’re moving into an older property or a wooded area.
How United Local Movers Can Help
At United Local Movers, we’ve assisted thousands of families through every kind of move—and we understand the frustration of discovering pests after you’ve unpacked. That’s why we offer:
- Flexible scheduling, so you can delay your move if your home needs pest treatment
- Sanitary, sealed packing techniques to avoid transferring pests from one location to another
- Guidance on protecting boxes and furniture during long-distance transit
We’re more than just movers—we’re relocation partners who care about your fresh start.
Final Thoughts
Checking your new home for pests before move-in is not just smart—it’s essential. From health concerns to property damage, early detection is the best form of protection. Whether you’re moving into a rental, buying a house, or relocating cross-country, a quick pest inspection can save you time, money, and serious frustration.
Need a team that respects the details? United Local Movers is ready to help you settle in comfortably—with no unwanted guests.
