Fall · Pests · Updated September 2026
Rats and mice move in with the first cold front
Roof rats and house mice head for Austin attics in the fall. Here's how to tell if they're in, and why sealing entry points beats bait alone.
The first real cold front in Austin usually arrives in October. So do the calls about scratching in the attic. Roof rats and house mice spend the summer outdoors, then look for a warm, dry place to nest as nights drop into the 50s.
Signs they're already in
- Scratching or running in the attic or walls at night
- Droppings in the garage, attic, pantry, or drawers
- Chewed food packaging, wires, or insulation
- Grease marks along beams and around small holes
Why we seal first
Bait alone keeps killing rodents that keep coming in, and a rat can die inside a wall. Our approach starts with an inspection of the roofline, vents, soffits, AC lines, and foundation. You get an itemized quote the same day, listing each opening and how we'll seal it. After you approve it, we seal the openings, set traps, and come back to check until activity stops. Sealed entry points carry a 1-year warranty.
What you can do this month
- Trim tree branches at least 6 feet back from the roof.
- Pick up fallen fruit, pecans, and pet food left outside.
- Store firewood off the ground and away from the house.
- Close the gap at the bottom of the garage door.
The $55 inspection is credited toward the work if you book it.
