Your free rodent inspection
The first step to nixing your rodent problem starts with scheduling your free inspection.
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Content Updated: May 7, 2026
A free rodent inspection with Terminix® can help identify problems early before mice or rats can cause serious damage inside your home. Rodents can chew through wiring, insulation, and structural materials, contaminate food and surfaces, and spread bacteria.
During the rodent inspection, our experts will identify which species may be present, where they’re active, and how they’re getting inside your home. They can also locate potential entry points, nesting areas, and conditions that can attract rodents. Once the inspection is complete, we can recommend a tailored rodent control plan for your home.
What happens during a rodent inspection?
Before the rodent inspection, you may be asked about signs you’ve noticed, such as noises, droppings, or damage.
A typical inspection includes a thorough walkthrough of key rodent hiding and travel areas. Our technicians will check areas inside the home, including the basement, crawl space, wall voids, attic, garage, and utility areas, as well as exterior foundations, rooflines, vents, and other potential entry points. They also look at harder-to-reach areas where rodents commonly nest or travel. Once these factors are identified, we can create a targeted plan to address current activity and future prevention.
What do rodent inspectors look for in your home?
Our experts will look for common signs of rodents, including:
- Droppings
- Gnaw marks
- Grease marks (dark spots of sebum)
- Scratching or scurrying noises
- Strong, musty odors
- Visible rodents
- Nesting materials
- Other conditions that may attract rodents, such as food sources or moisture
They can also help identify structural vulnerabilities that allow rodents to enter your home, like holes and other small openings. Once these factors are identified, we can create a targeted plan to address current activity and future prevention.
How can I prepare for a rodent inspection?
If you’re scheduling a rodent inspection, a little preparation can help your technician work more efficiently. To prepare for a rodent inspection
- Clear access to key areas: Move storage items away from walls in garages, basements, and utility rooms. Make sure the attic entrance, crawl space access, and other areas, including the exterior, are reachable.
- Secure pets: Keep pets contained so the inspection can be completed without interruptions.
- Make a list of what you’ve noticed: Note any scratching sounds, tracks, droppings, gnaw marks, unusual odors, or sightings, and where they occurred.
What happens if they find mice or rats?
If a rodent infestation is confirmed, your technician will explain what was found, where rodents are active, and how they’re getting inside. From there, they’ll outline clear next steps to help eliminate the problem and prevent future activity. Treatment options may include a combination of targeted rodent removal methods, monitoring, and exclusion recommendations to help seal entry points.
If no rodent activity is found, you’ll get peace of mind along with recommendations to help keep your home protected, such as sealing small gaps or reducing attractants.
Is a rodent inspection from Terminix really free?
Yes, an initial rodent inspection with Terminix is free. Once the inspection is complete, additional services may be recommended, including removal, exclusion work, or ongoing treatments. These services do carry a cost. Your technician will clearly explain any recommended next steps and walk you through all associated costs before you decide to move forward.