Congratulations! You are the proud owner of a new home. It’s a celebratory time as you embark on the exciting journey of home ownership. However, all of this celebration can come to a halt if there are pests on the premises. Not only are pests unsightly, but they can indicate underlying maintenance or structural issues. So before you open your home for a housewarming party, make sure you are checking off all the boxes when it comes to pest control.

From unpacking to organizing and—of course—decorating, the importance of pest control may not always be top of mind. However, pests like cockroaches, rodents and ants can quickly become roommates if you aren’t careful.

Take a look around your new home…are there cardboard boxes laying around? Holes in any of the walls? What about cracks underneath the doorway? All of these are welcome mats for pests looking for food, shelter and water. While you may not notice it, pests are quick to get inside your home and hesitant to leave.

Luckily, Orkin Canada has created a simple checklist for you to follow as you move into your home, including easy fixes and smart ways to prevent pests from taking up residence. Take our advice and follow these six tips to keep your home pest-free:

  1. Caulk holes
  2. Dispose of cardboard boxes
  3. Check for leaks
  4. Install door sweeps
  5. Trim tree branches
  6. Choose a pest control provider

We know you have a lot on your plate, so download the full “New Homeowner Checklist” for more details on how to give pests the boot.