As the temperatures dip and we settle into the coziness of November, most people in Central Virginia are focused on holiday plans, warm meals, and preparing for winter. Unfortunately, pests are doing the same thing—just in their own way. This time of year, mice, spiders, stink bugs, and even cockroaches start looking for shelter from the cold. And without proper prevention, your home can quickly become their favorite hideaway.
At Pest Now of Central VA, we often see a surge in pest calls during November. Homeowners who thought their pest problems ended with summer are suddenly surprised by scratching noises in the walls, droppings in storage areas, or an unexpected stink bug crawling across the ceiling. The reason? As outdoor temperatures drop, pests are driven indoors by instinct—to find warmth, food, and safety from the elements.
The Most Common November Pests in Virginia
Rodents: Mice and rats are the most active this month, squeezing through tiny openings around foundations, crawl spaces, and utility lines. Once inside, they’ll build nests in attics, basements, or behind kitchen appliances. Besides being destructive—chewing wires, insulation, and packaging—rodents can also carry diseases and contaminate food.
Spiders: You may notice more spiders as they follow their prey indoors or search for warmer spaces to lay eggs. While most Virginia spiders are harmless, they’re still unwelcome houseguests—especially when they show up in corners, storage bins, or basements.
Cockroaches: These pests thrive in warm, damp areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. With homes sealed up tight for winter, they can multiply quickly if crumbs or moisture are available.
Overwintering Insects: Stink bugs, lady beetles, and boxelder bugs begin settling into attics and wall voids for the winter. They’re mostly inactive during the cold months, but when temperatures rise slightly, they can reappear inside your home—especially near windows.
How to Keep Pests Out This November
The best defense against winter pests is prevention. Before temperatures drop any further, take these simple steps:
- Seal Entry Points: Check the exterior of your home for cracks, gaps, or holes—especially around doors, windows, vents, and utility lines. Rodents can enter through holes as small as a dime.
- Store Food Securely: Keep pantry items sealed in airtight containers and clean up crumbs right away. Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
- Clean Up the Yard: Remove piles of leaves, wood, or debris near your home’s foundation. These create perfect nesting areas for rodents and insects.
- Declutter Storage Areas: When pulling out holiday decorations or storing fall gear, inspect boxes for signs of pests. Use plastic bins instead of cardboard, which attracts rodents.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection: Even small pest issues can become large infestations quickly in winter. Pest Now of Central VA offers seasonal inspections and treatments to stop problems before they start.
Why Professional Help Matters
While DIY traps or sprays can offer temporary relief, they rarely address the root of the problem. Rodents and insects are masters at hiding—and by the time you see signs of them, they’ve likely already made themselves at home. Professional pest control provides long-term protection with targeted treatments, exclusion techniques, and ongoing maintenance that keeps your home secure through the colder months.
At Pest Now of Central VA, we understand how Virginia’s changing seasons affect pest behavior. Our local technicians are trained to spot potential entry points, treat active infestations, and prevent future ones before they happen. As the holidays approach, let us help you keep your home clean, cozy, and pest-free.
This November, don’t wait until you see or hear unwanted guests inside your home. Take proactive steps to protect your family and your property before winter fully sets in. With the right prevention plan, you can focus on what truly matters this season—enjoying a warm, comfortable home without the worry of pests. Claim your free inspection at PestNowCVA.com!
