The dangers of wildlife in the family home and what that can mean for Domestic Cleaning in a Worcestershire property.

Recently, we were called in to do a clean out toward the Worcestershire village of Hanley Swan. It was a relatively standard job, but upon the ceilings of the upstairs bedroom were the beginnings of a mould growth. And it wasn’t hard to discover the cause: a ‘chattering’ of starlings (don’t you just love these old birding expressions?), had taken up residence in the eaves of the house, and tunnelled their way into the roofing above the plaster. That side of the property faced north, and cooler air in the winter months, carrying with it moisture in one of the wettest winters we’ve seen in a while, had entered the roof space and led to the development of black mould.

After the breeding season, the client has stated that the roof top will be blocked off when the birds have left, and boxes will be provided for them.

But it did get me thinking, what kind of damage can English wildlife cause to a property?

The encroachment of wildlife into our homes presents a range of challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining the cleanliness and structural integrity of our properties. From the tiniest insects like ants and silverfish to larger animals such as starlings and sparrows nesting in the roofs, the impact on domestic cleaning efforts and property maintenance can be significant.

Insects such as ants, silverfish, flies, spiders, and wasps are common in UK homes, and Worcestershire is no exception. These creatures can be more than just a nuisance; they can indicate and contribute to underlying hygiene and structural issues. Ants invading your kitchen are not only seeking food but might also suggest easy access points that need sealing. Similarly, silverfish thrive in damp environments, hinting at possible moisture problems within the property.

Flies and spiders, although part of the natural ecosystem for controlling pests, can become pests themselves when their numbers grow inside a home, leading to the need for more thorough and frequent domestic cleaning. Wasps, on the other hand, can pose a direct threat to the occupants’ safety, and their nests can cause damage to property structures.

Rats, mice, and squirrels represent another tier of wildlife issues for homeowners in Worcestershire. These animals can find their way into homes through very small openings, seeking warmth and food. Once inside, they can cause a myriad of problems, from gnawing on electrical wires and structural components to contaminating food surfaces and storage areas. The presence of rodents often leads to a need for deep cleaning and disinfection, beyond the routine dusting and vacuuming, to ensure the home is safe and hygienic for its human inhabitants.

It is also very dangerous: We once cleaned an outside garage where a squirrel had chewed into a live electric mains wire. If it hadn’t been found and removed then it would surley have finished its task only to get the last shock if its life and possibly cause a fire. One homeowner I told of this story had the blood drain from her face when she thought having squirrels in her well-insulated loft (and hence plenty of dry fuel for a spark) was a nice country-thing to do! Thankfully, she called the pest control people that day and I believe that the nut addict was humanely taken away.

Addressing the Issue

Combatting the impact of wildlife on domestic cleaning and property maintenance requires a multifaceted approach. Preventative measures, such as sealing entry points for insects and rodents and installing proper netting to deter birds from nesting in roofs, are essential first steps. Regular property inspections can help identify potential issues early, before they lead to significant damage or cleaning challenges.

For homeowners facing these challenges, enlisting the help of professional domestic cleaning services that understand the specific needs related to wildlife intrusion can be invaluable. We can provide deep cleaning services to address infestations and contamination, as well as offer advice on preventative measures to protect the home from future invasions.

By understanding these challenges and taking proactive steps to address them, homeowners can protect their properties and ensure their homes remain clean, safe, and welcoming environments for all who reside within.