When we think of pest damage, it is usual to think about fleas and mice. Or maybe ants. However, there are several lesser-known pests that could be silently wreaking havoc on your home.
These animals and bugs can cause structural damage, contaminate your living space, and even create health hazards.
Here are some of the other pests that you should be aware of.
Woodworm
Woodworm, or furniture beetles, are a well-known enemy of wooden furniture and beams in older UK homes. These beetles lay their eggs in wood, and once the larvae hatch, they begin boring through the material, causing extensive damage over time.
Look out for small, round holes in your furniture, beams, or floorboards. You may also notice fine wood dust around these holes. Woodworm loves damp environments, so keep things well ventilated. Consider treating vulnerable wood with a preservative to reduce the chance of infestations.
Cluster Flies
Cluster flies often go unnoticed in the UK. While they don’t cause direct structural damage, they are a general nuisance, invading lofts and attics in large numbers, contaminating insulation and leaving behind droppings. They often appear during autumn when they seek warmth clustering around windows or hiding in attic spaces.
To stop them getting in seal cracks any and entry points around windows and loft spaces around your home. If you notice a large infestation, consult a pest control expert for safe removal.
Carpet Beetles
Carpet beetles may be small, but their impact can be significant. Carpet beetles feed on natural fibres, causing damage to carpets, upholstery, and clothing. If you start to see bald patches in carpets or holes in fabric these are often accompanied by beetles or their larvae. Regularly vacuum your carpets and upholstery, and clean fabrics (especially wool), to remove larvae. Spraying moth repellents can also help protect vulnerable items.
Deathwatch Beetles
Deathwatch beetles are particularly common in older UK homes, especially those with oak-framed structures. Oak is the beetle’s favourite wood, and because there are more oak-framed buildings in the south of England it’s more widespread there than in the north. These bugs bore into hardwood, weakening beams and joists over time, which can lead to expensive repairs.
In quiet rooms, you might hear a tapping sound (hence the name “deathwatch”) and look for small holes in wooden beams and piles of wood dust nearby. Deathwatch beetles are associated with damp conditions and the Donkioporia expansa fungi, so keeping timber dry and ensuring good ventilation is vital. In cases of infestation, both professional pest control and restoration experts might be required.
Pigeons
Though often overlooked as a home pest, pigeons can cause significant damage to UK homes. Their acidic droppings can corrode building materials, while nests can contain parasites and block gutters, leading to water damage.
The constant cooing noise can also be distressful. If you notice a lot of droppings on ledges, blocked gutters, or hear cooing from the roof, pigeons may be nesting nearby.
Anti-bird spikes can deter pigeons from roosting on your property. Keeping roofs and gutters clean and free of debris also helps avoid long-term damage from water.
Rodents (Squirrels, Rats and Mice)
Rats and mice are well-known for causing trouble, and in addition to chewing through wires, insulation, and pipes, they can spark electrical fires or cause water leaks.
Look for droppings, gnawed wires, or holes chewed into walls. You might also hear scurrying sounds or even see them dart across the room.
Squirrels can cause significant damage in areas such as lofts and will return to their place of birth as adults. It’s also illegal to release grey squirrels back into the wild.
Seal any gaps in walls or foundations, store food in airtight containers, and remove clutter where rodents might hide. Set traps or call a pest control professional if the problem persists.
Wasps
Wasps can be a nightmare, especially when they build nests in wall cavities, lofts, or under roof tiles. Left unchecked, a wasp nest can damage insulation and, in some cases, even the structure of your home. They’re especially dangerous if anyone nearby is allergic to stings.
You might hear a buzzing sound or see large numbers of wasps coming and going from specific areas, such as under eaves or in lofts. Check the outside of your home for nests in spring and early summer. If you find a nest, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. A quick search for pest control near me will give you the numbers of nearby professionals who can safely handle wasps and other stinging insects.
Final thoughts
While some of these pests might not be as well-known or the damage as obvious as that caused by rodents, they can still cause significant damage to your home. Regular inspections can help you spot the early signs and keep these bugs and animals away. If you suspect you have an infestation or want advice on how to keep your home pest-free, contact a professional pest control service.
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