Winter in Surrey brings its own set of pest challenges. While many people assume pest activity slows in the colder months, several of BC’s most common pests are actually at their most problematic indoors during autumn and winter. Here’s what to watch for and how to respond.

Rats and Mice

Rodent pressure in Surrey peaks in autumn and early winter as rats and mice seek warmth and shelter inside homes. Norway rats enter through foundation gaps, drain lines, and gaps around pipes. House mice squeeze through openings as small as 6mm. Both contaminate food, chew through wiring, and breed rapidly indoors. Learn the signs of a rat infestation and act immediately if you spot them — a small number of rodents in October becomes a large colony by January.

Cockroaches

German cockroaches are active year-round indoors and populations can actually increase in winter as central heating creates ideal breeding conditions inside wall voids near boilers and plumbing. If you’re seeing cockroaches in winter, the infestation has likely been present for months.

Bed Bugs

Bed bug activity doesn’t slow in winter. They’re not seasonal — they live entirely indoors and are completely unaffected by outdoor temperatures. Holiday travel and post-holiday second-hand furniture purchases make winter a high-risk period for bed bug introduction. Read about the signs of bed bugs to catch an infestation early.

Spiders

Many spider species enter Surrey homes in autumn seeking warmth and mates. While most BC spiders are harmless, a sudden increase in spider activity indoors signals that their prey (insects) are also present. Spiders don’t cause infestations themselves, but their presence is a useful indicator of other pest activity.

What to Do

Seal gaps around pipes, utility entries, and the foundation before winter. Store firewood away from the house. Keep garage doors closed. For existing infestations, contact Top Line Pest Control for Surrey pest control — same-day service available year-round. Get a free quote today.