Why did pest problems increase during COVID-19?
TL;DR — Quick Answer
Pest problems increased during COVID-19 due to changes in human behaviour, including more people staying home, altered waste patterns and reduced activity in commercial areas. Rodents and other pests adapted to changing environments, searching for new food sources and shelter. Regular inspections and preventative pest control help reduce infestation risks.
COVID-19 Pest Surge: Why Rodents Moved Into Sydney Homes & How To Stop Them
When pandemic restrictions changed daily life for people, they also changed behaviour for common pests — especially rodents across Sydney and NSW.
COVID-19 restrictions shifted rodent activity from public spaces to homes. Less commercial waste plus more household food scraps and stored supplies drew pests indoors. Seal gaps, store food securely, and keep areas clean to deter them; call pros if you spot signs.
For a full inspection, Contact Sydney’s Best Pest Control.
Why Did Rodent Numbers Rise During COVID-19?
Rodents adapt fast. When public activity dropped, their usual food sources dried up — so they moved closer to homes.
NSW Health data from 2021 noted a 38% increase in residential rodent service requests compared to pre‑pandemic levels, linked to changed waste patterns.
What Changed That Drew Rodents Inside?
Less food in public areas
Cafés, restaurants and food suppliers reduced operations or closed. Fewer scraps in laneways, bins and outdoor dining spots pushed rodents to find new feeding grounds.
More waste concentrated at home
With work, school and meals happening indoors, daily rubbish and food leftovers built up in one place. A household running as office, classroom and kitchen generates far more organic waste than normal.
More stored food sitting unused
Less frequent shopping meant larger stockpiles. Unsealed packets, open bags and excess supplies became easy targets for hungry pests.
According to the Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association (AEPMA), 62% of licensed operators reported residential jobs doubling between March and August 2020.
How Do I Keep Rodents Out Of My Home?
- Seal every gap: Block holes, cracks and crevices along foundations, doors, windows, vents, pipes and rooflines. Rats can squeeze through openings the size of a coin.
- Store food securely: Use hard plastic or glass containers with tight lids — never cardboard or plastic bags.
- Clean daily: Wipe benches, sweep floors and empty bins often. Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
- Reduce clutter: Clear piles of boxes, paper or stored items where rodents nest.
Compliance note: Under the NSW Food Authority and Australian Standard AS 3660, food‑handling areas must be kept pest‑free — this applies to home kitchens as well as businesses.
If you notice droppings, gnaw marks or unusual sounds, don’t wait — call us on 1800 819 189 for fast, safe rodent control.
DIY vs Professional Rodent Control: Which Works Better?
| Factor | DIY Methods | Professional Service |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of results | Slow; often misses hidden nests | Fast; targets all activity zones |
| Long‑term success | 20–30% effective without follow‑up | Over 90% effective with ongoing monitoring |
| Safety & compliance | Risk of incorrect chemical use | Meets NSW health & safety rules |
| Guarantee | None | Warranties included |
Case study: In early 2020, we treated a Northern Beaches home where DIY traps had failed for six weeks. We found three hidden entry points and removed a nest behind kitchen cabinets — no return activity reported since.
Source: AEPMA Industry Benchmark Report 2020; NSW Health Environmental Health Notices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rodent increases still happening now?
Activity has settled but remains higher than pre‑2020 levels — especially in areas with cafes or food shops nearby.
Can rodents make my family sick?
Yes — they spread salmonella, leptospirosis and allergens through droppings, urine and fur.
How quickly should I act if I see signs?
Within 24–48 hours. Rodents breed fast — one pair can produce up to 100 offspring in a year.
Do I need a professional for just one rat?
Almost always — where there is one, there are usually more hidden. Pros locate entry points and stop them returning.
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Need Help With Rodents?
Sydney homeowners and businesses experienced changing pest patterns during COVID-19 as lockdowns altered how properties were used.
Residential areas saw increased activity due to more people staying home, while commercial properties faced different challenges when buildings were temporarily empty.
Professional pest control services help Sydney properties manage ongoing pest risks.