Pests in Hoarded Homes: Rodents, Roaches and Bed Bugs

Clutter gives pests food, water and places to hide, so infestations are one of the most common problems in hoarded homes. Rodents, cockroaches, flies and bed bugs can spread quickly through stacked items and into neighboring homes and apartments.

Common pests and what they bring

Mice and rats chew through boxes and wiring, contaminate surfaces with droppings and urine, and can carry disease.
Cockroaches thrive in kitchens and around food waste, and their droppings can trigger asthma and allergies.
Flies breed in spoiled food and waste.
Bed bugs hide in clothing, bedding and furniture, and clutter makes treatment much harder.
Fleas can follow when there are many animals. See animal hoarding cleanup.

Health risks

Droppings, urine and nests can contaminate the air and surfaces. Disturbing them can stir up particles, which is why professional crews wear protective equipment. See biohazards in hoarded homes.

Why cleanup and pest control must work together

Pest treatments do not work well when pests can hide in clutter.
Moving piles without treatment can spread pests to other rooms or homes.
The usual order is: inspect, treat or set traps, remove clutter in stages, then treat again and seal entry points.

Ask a hoarding cleanup company whether it works with a licensed pest control operator, and make sure the plan covers both.

Bed bugs need extra care

Items from a home with bed bugs should not be donated or moved to another home without treatment. Many crews bag and seal items, and some belongings may need heat treatment or disposal.

Keeping pests away afterward

Store food in sealed containers and take out trash regularly.
Fix leaks and remove standing water.
Seal gaps around pipes, doors and walls.
Schedule follow-up pest inspections.
Keep floors and walls clear so problems are visible.

See after the cleanup and odor removal in hoarded homes.

Find a hoarding cleanup company near you or biohazard cleanup specialists.