When most people think about pest problems, they picture ants in the kitchen or mosquitoes in the backyard. But some of the most serious pest issues in Central Virginia start in a place you rarely see: your crawl space.
At Pest Now of Central VA, we regularly inspect homes where the pest activity beneath the floors is far worse than what’s visible inside. If you’ve never looked under your house, now’s the time—because pests love it down there.
Why Crawl Spaces Attract Pests in Central Virginia
Virginia homes—especially older ones—often have crawl spaces to improve ventilation and reduce moisture buildup under the structure. But that combination of darkness, humidity, and shelter creates a perfect environment for pests.
Crawl spaces often attract:
- Rodents
- Spiders
- Camel crickets
- Termites
- Ants
- Centipedes
- Wood-destroying insects
- Mold and mildew (which attract pests!)
The Most Common Crawl Space Pests
Rodents (Mice & Rats)
Rodents are drawn to crawl spaces for warmth, safety, and nesting material. From there, they often chew through insulation and ductwork—or climb up into your walls.
Warning signs:
- Droppings
- Gnaw marks
- Urine smell
- Noises in floors or walls
Spiders & Insects
Spiders, centipedes, silverfish, and crickets love dark, undisturbed areas. They often hide out in crawl spaces and come upstairs through vents or gaps.
Why it matters: Even non-dangerous pests can become a problem in large numbers—and black widows and brown recluses are known to hide in Virginia crawl spaces.
Moisture-Loving Insects (Termites, Ants, and More)
A damp crawl space is a paradise for wood-destroying insects like termites and carpenter ants, as well as mold mites and earwigs.
Pro tip: If your crawl space feels damp, smells musty, or shows wood rot, you’re at high risk of pest activity.
How Pests in the Crawl Space Affect the Rest of Your Home
- Rodents can chew through wires and insulation, increasing fire risk and utility costs.
- Insects can enter living spaces through plumbing gaps, floorboards, or air vents.
- Termites and moisture damage can weaken your foundation and structural supports.
- Pest droppings and decay can impact indoor air quality and trigger allergies.
How to Prevent Crawl Space Infestations
1. Schedule Regular Inspections
Have your crawl space professionally inspected once or twice a year. Most people don’t realize there’s a problem until it’s already serious.
2. Install a Vapor Barrier
A vapor barrier can drastically reduce moisture levels—and prevent the conditions that pests love.
3. Seal Vents and Gaps
Rodents and insects sneak in through poorly sealed vents, foundation cracks, and gaps in the floor joists. Sealing these entry points is crucial.
4. Keep It Clean and Dry
Remove old insulation or debris, and make sure drainage around your home is working properly.
5. Call Pest Now of Central VA
We specialize in crawl space pest control in Richmond, Fredericksburg, and surrounding areas. Our team inspects, treats, and prevents pest activity where it starts—under your feet.
Don’t Let Pests Hide Below Your Home
Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. Your crawl space could be harboring pests that threaten your home’s safety and your family’s comfort.
Call Pest Now of Central VA (804) 589-1009 or visit pestnowcva.com today to schedule a free crawl space inspection and keep what’s under your home under control—for good.
