When a hurricane is approaching, most commercial property managers focus on securing windows, safeguarding equipment, and protecting their teams. But what about protecting your property from pests and wildlife?
In Florida and across the Southeast, hurricane season doesn’t just bring wind and rain—it creates ideal conditions for pests to invade. Displaced wildlife, rodents, mosquitoes, and other nuisance pests often seek refuge inside commercial buildings after a storm, causing serious structural, sanitation, and operational issues.
Don’t Let Pests Become Part of Your Storm Cleanup Plan
Hurricanes damage more than just roofs and powerlines—they also destroy animal habitats. When trees fall and ground burrows flood, displaced wildlife like raccoons, squirrels, and rodents seek safe shelter in human-made structures. For commercial properties, this means warehouses, office attics, drop ceilings, utility rooms, and crawlspaces are all at risk.
Meanwhile, the storm’s aftermath leaves behind debris, moisture, and standing water—prime conditions for mosquitoes, termites, ants, and roaches to thrive. The result? Your business could be facing operational disruption, health code violations, and costly repairs.
Pre-Storm Pest & Wildlife Prevention Tips for Businesses
Here’s how to protect your commercial property before the next major storm:
- Inspect and Seal Entry Points
Check around vents, soffits, rooflines, crawlspaces, and loading docks. Rodents only need a hole the size of a dime to get in. Use steel mesh, weatherproof sealant, or professional exclusion materials to close gaps. - Trim Back Overgrown Vegetation
Trees and shrubs near your roof or siding act as bridges for pests. Trim them back at least 2–3 feet to reduce access points. - Secure Dumpsters and Outdoor Bins
Wind can scatter trash and expose food sources. Ensure all commercial dumpsters are tightly sealed and located away from entry points. - Eliminate Standing Water Risks
Walk the perimeter and look for drainage issues, clogged gutters, or low-lying areas where water could collect—these are mosquito breeding zones in the making. - Schedule a Pre-Storm Pest & Wildlife Inspection
Turner Pest Control can inspect your property for vulnerabilities and help you proactively prevent intrusions before the storm hits.
Post-Storm Pest Control Checklist for Commercial Properties
Once the storm passes and it’s safe to return, follow these steps:
- Clear Debris Quickly
Fallen limbs, leaves, and scattered materials become hiding spots for rodents and insects. Removing debris fast prevents infestations from settling in. - Reinspect Entry Points
Storm winds and flying debris may have damaged your building’s exterior, opening new paths for pests. Check all vulnerable areas again. - Look for Wildlife Intrusion Signs
If you hear scratching above ceiling tiles, notice droppings in utility rooms, or smell foul odors, it could mean wildlife has moved in. - Eliminate Water Accumulation
Mosquitoes can breed in a capful of water. Drain puddles, empty containers, and inspect flat roof areas for standing water. - Schedule a Post-Storm Treatment or Exclusion Service
Even if you haven’t seen pests yet, they may already be inside. Let our team assess and treat your property before the problem worsens.
Why Wildlife & Pest Exclusion Matters for Your Business
Displaced wildlife and storm-driven pests can do serious damage to your facility:
- Chewed wires and insulation
- Contaminated storage areas
- Ruined HVAC systems
- Fire hazards from gnawed cables
- Health code violations due to droppings or odor
- Negative customer or tenant impressions
Early intervention is the best defense. Wildlife like raccoons, rats, and opossums won’t leave on their own once they find a dry, safe space inside. They’ll settle in, reproduce, and cause extensive damage in a matter of days.
How Turner Pest Control Can Help
Our commercial pest and wildlife services are tailored for storm season. We offer:
- Pre- and post-storm inspections
- Wildlife trapping and humane exclusion
- Entry point sealing and repairs
- Pest treatments and ongoing monitoring
- Customized service plans for commercial facilities
Whether you operate a school, healthcare center, industrial building, or multi-unit complex, we’ll help you weather the storm—and the pest threats that follow it.
Schedule Your Hurricane Season Inspection Today
Storm prep isn’t complete until your pest control plan is in place. Let Turner help you keep your business protected from all sides this hurricane season.
Call 800-225-5305 or visit TurnerPest.com to book your pre- or post-storm pest inspection.
