The holidays have come to a close, and for many Northern Virginia homeowners, that means one thing: the big "attic shuffle." As you haul the reindeer and tinsel back upstairs, you might notice things aren't exactly as you left them.

Unfortunately, winter is peak season for mice, rats, and squirrels to seek refuge in our cozy, insulated attics. If you noticed something suspicious while putting your decorations away, you aren't alone.

Common Signs You Have "Uninvited Guests"

While you’re navigating the rafters, keep an eye out for these four red flags:

• Damaged Heirloom Boxes: Rodents love cardboard. If you see chewed corners on your ornament boxes or shredded wrapping paper, they likely used it for nesting material.

• The "Pitter-Patter" Soundtrack: If you hear scratching or scurrying overhead once the house gets quiet at night, it’s rarely just "the house settling."

• Gnawed Wiring: This is the most dangerous sign. Rodents have teeth that never stop growing, so they chew on anything—including your home's electrical wiring.

• Unpleasant Odors: A stale, musky smell or the scent of ammonia in a confined attic space is a strong indicator of a long-term rodent presence.

Why Northern Virginia Homes are Targets

Between our damp winters and the abundance of mature trees in neighborhoods from Arlington to Leesburg, rodents have easy access to rooflines. A mouse only needs a hole the size of a dime to enter, and once they find your insulation, they’ve found a five-star hotel.

Don't Just "Trap and Forget"

Setting a few hardware-store traps might catch one or two intruders, but it doesn't solve the root of the problem. Effective pest control requires:

1. Exclusion: Finding and sealing the tiny entry points around the exterior.

2. Sanitation: Cleaning up waste that can carry diseases or attract more pests.

3. Monitoring: Ensuring the colony is actually gone, not just hiding.

We’ll Help You Reclaim Your Storage Space

Don't let the stress of a rodent infestation ruin your post-holiday reset. If you found evidence of pests while putting your decorations away, let the local experts handle it. We know Northern Virginia homes, and we know how to keep them pest-free all winter long.

Give us a call or fill out the form below for a full attic inspection!