Mouse Pest Control in Essex
Mice may look small and harmless, but they are one of the UK’s most common pest species and can cause serious health and property risks. At Red Pencil Pest Control, we provide fast, discreet, and effective mouse control services for homes and businesses across Essex.
THE BIG 3 QUESTIONS
Mice and Why Do We Need to Control Them?
The two most common species in the UK are the House Mouse (Mus musculus domesticus) and the Field Mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus).
While some people consider mice “cute”, they are in fact a public health pest. Mice can spread harmful diseases such as:
- Salmonella
- Listeria
They contaminate food and surfaces with urine, droppings, and nesting material. Because mice urinate frequently and often live near food sources, the risk of food poisoning is high.
Mice also cause serious property damage. Their constant need to gnaw means they chew through:
- Electrical wiring (risk of fire)
- Gas and water pipes (risk of flooding)
- Woodwork, packaging, and furniture
For businesses, a mouse problem can cause legal issues under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 and the Food Safety Act 1990, as well as reputational damage from bad reviews and social media exposure.
How to Identify a mouse Infestation
Mice are small, fast, and active all year round. Some tell-tale signs include:
- Droppings: Black, rice-sized droppings (up to 80 per day).
- Strong smell: A distinctive ammonia-like odour.
- Smear marks: Greasy streaks along walls and surfaces.
- Nests: Found in lofts, wall cavities, under floors, or cupboards.
- Damage: Chewed packaging, cables, carpets, or stored food.
- Noises: Scratching or scurrying, especially at night.
Mice only need a gap the size of a pencil eraser (5mm) to get into your property, so even the smallest openings must be considered.
How We Treat a MouSE Infestations
At Red Pencil Pest Control, we use professional methods based on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and BPCA guidelines:
- Survey & Inspection: Identify entry points, nests, and food sources.
- Proofing: Seal gaps, secure food storage, and block access routes.
- Treatment Options:
- Professionally placed traps (baited with proven attractants).
- Professional-use rodenticides (if needed) — applied responsibly to protect pets, children, and wildlife.
- Follow-up & Monitoring: Ensure activity is reduced, adjust treatment, and provide prevention advice.
- Full Report: Documentation for your records, especially important for businesses.
DIY mouse control is rarely effective — mice are sporadic feeders, cautious of new objects, and many UK populations are resistant to standard rodenticides. Professional help ensures safe, effective, and lasting results