5 Types of Damage Causes By Mice In Commercial Buildings

4 June 2021
 Categories: , Blog

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Mice aren't just a problem in the home, they can also infest a commercial building. They are usually drawn by food, shelter, water, or a combination of the three. 

1. Disease Concerns

One of the biggest concerns should be the health and safety of your staff and clients. Mice can carry several diseases, such as hantavirus and salmonella. These diseases can be spread simply by breathing in the dust from mouse waste and nesting materials, so they pose a risk even if no one comes in direct contact with the pests. Making sure all parts of your building, from the loading docks to the office kitchen, are mouse-free is vital for health and safety. 

2. Building Damage

Mice may be small, but they can destroy parts of a building. They chew holes in walls, air ducts, and flooring. They will nibble on wires, being drawn to the insulating covers on the electrical system. Not only does this cause damage to the wiring, but it may also lead to electrical fires or the loss of power in parts of your building. Insulation is another area mice tend to destroy, as they will chew it up for nesting and coat it in their waste. 

3. Textile Destruction

Any paperwork your business keeps on file is at risk if there are mice. Mice are drawn to paper and cardboard as it provides optimal nesting material for them. They will also destroy other textiles, which means if your business deals in any type of paper or fabric product, they can be at risk if the mice get into the warehouse or onto the sales floor. Even office textiles, like rugs and the bottoms of drapes, can suffer rodent damage. 

4. Hygiene Issues

Hygiene concerns can lead to a loss of customers or even repercussions from local health departments. This is a major problem in certain types of businesses, such as restaurants, cafes, and food manufacturers. Even non-food businesses with employee cafeterias or kitchens may be required to pass a health inspection, which can be impacted if signs of mice are found. 

5. Equipment Malfunctions

Rodents will sometimes get into equipment as they look for warm, protected areas to nest and breed. It's not uncommon to find mice nests inside computer towers or in manufacturing equipment if a building is battling a rodent problem. Not only is this a nuisance, but the mice may also chew through wires or block cooling fans and vents. This can lead to expensive malfunctions and damage. 

Contact a commercial pest control service if you have mice issues.