What gets checked
Basement edges, pipe penetrations, utility chases, door sweeps, garage gaps, attic insulation, cabinet backs, exterior walls, rear alleys, foundation cracks, and trash storage areas are all common inspection points in Philadelphia properties.
Evidence matters
Dropping size, chew patterns, rub marks, burrow signs, and sound locations help separate rats from mice. That matters because the plan, device placement, and sealing details are different.
Clear next steps
After inspection, callers need to know what activity was found, where the likely access points are, what can be treated immediately, and which prevention steps matter most.
How inspection connects to treatment
Inspection connects the first signs of activity to the right treatment path. It helps decide whether the caller needs rat control, mice control, trapping, exclusion, active removal, or a mix of services.
A good inspection follows the evidence
Rodent inspection should not begin with a guess. Droppings, rub marks, chew damage, sounds, odors, nesting material, burrows, and pet attention all point toward different rooms and exterior areas. In Philadelphia, the inspection often needs to connect basement edges, kitchens, shared walls, rear alleys, trash areas, porch openings, and old utility penetrations.
What to check before service
Walk the property if it is safe to do so. Look under sinks, behind the stove, near the water heater, along basement walls, near garage doors, around exterior pipes, under porches, and beside trash storage. Photos of droppings, holes, or damage can help, but a plain description by phone is enough to start the conversation.
Inspection for landlords and tenants
Rental properties need clear facts because access, responsibility, and timing can be complicated. Mention whether the signs were reported by a tenant, whether the owner has inspected the unit, whether activity is in a common area, and whether neighboring units have similar complaints. That helps separate unit-specific evidence from building-wide pressure.
What the inspection should answer
A useful inspection should narrow down the likely species, the strongest activity area, the possible entry points, and the next practical step. Sometimes that means trapping first; sometimes it means sealing recommendations, sanitation changes, or a deeper check of the basement, attic, crawl space, or exterior perimeter.