Most homeowners hope that if they don’t see pests, they don’t have them. Unfortunately, many infestations go unnoticed until they become serious—and by then, damage is already done.
Knowing the warning signs of pests is key to protecting your home. Here are the 7 most common indicators of a pest problem in Utah and what you should do about them.
1. Droppings or Urine Trails
Rodents, cockroaches, and even some insects leave droppings behind. These are often the first signs homeowners notice.
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Rodent droppings: Small, dark pellets found in pantries, cupboards, or along baseboards.
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Cockroach droppings: Tiny black specks that resemble coffee grounds.
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Urine trails: Rodents often leave streaks or strong odors.
👉 If you notice droppings, don’t ignore them—pests reproduce quickly, and waiting can mean a full infestation.
2. Unusual Noises at Night
Many pests are nocturnal, so if you hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking in your walls or attic, it’s a red flag.
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Rodents are most active at night, often chewing or moving inside walls.
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Larger insects may also make faint clicking or rustling sounds.
👉 Don’t dismiss nighttime noises—they’re often one of the most reliable indicators of pests.
3. Damaged Food Packaging
If you’ve opened your pantry to find torn bags of rice, chewed cereal boxes, or small holes in food containers, pests are likely the culprit.
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Mice and rats gnaw through packaging easily.
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Pantry pests (like weevils or moths) infest dry goods and leave larvae behind.
👉 Pro Tip: Store dry foods in airtight, hard plastic or glass containers to reduce risk.
4. Chewed Wires, Wood, or Furniture
Rodents constantly gnaw to keep their teeth from overgrowing. Unfortunately, this habit leads to:
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Frayed electrical wires (a fire hazard)
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Gnawed wooden furniture or baseboards
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Damage to insulation or drywall
Termites and carpenter ants can also cause wood damage, leading to structural issues if left untreated.
5. Unpleasant or Musty Odors
Strong, lingering smells are another clear sign of pests.
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Rodents: Have a strong musky odor.
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Cockroaches: Leave a sour, oily smell.
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Dead pests: Can create a rotting odor if trapped in walls or vents.
👉 If you smell something unusual and can’t locate the source, it’s worth a professional inspection.
6. Visible Pest Sightings
While one ant or spider might not be cause for alarm, frequent sightings of pests indoors usually mean more are hiding.
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Daytime cockroaches often signal a large infestation.
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Ant trails show a nearby nest.
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Multiple spiders indicate an ample insect food source in your home.
7. Structural Damage or Nesting Materials
Pests don’t just invade—they build homes inside yours.
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Rodents: Use shredded paper, fabric, or insulation for nests.
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Termites: Leave hollow-sounding wood or mud tubes along foundations.
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Wasps: Build papery nests in attics, sheds, or eaves.
Spotting any of these is a strong sign you need pest control in Utah right away.
What To Do If You Notice the Signs
Pests don’t go away on their own—they multiply. The longer you wait, the harder (and more expensive) it is to get rid of them.
At Pointe Pest Control, we take a proven approach to pest management:
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Thorough inspection – We identify the pests and where they’re hiding.
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Customized treatment – Targeted solutions that are safe for your family and pets.
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Ongoing prevention – Long-term protection to keep pests from coming back.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Ignoring the signs of a pest infestation can lead to bigger problems—structural damage, food contamination, and even health risks.
✅ If you’ve noticed any of these 7 signs of pests in your Utah home, call Pointe Pest Control today. Our experts are here to eliminate pests quickly and keep your home protected year-round.