The Graduate Housing Spotlight

Rodent and Pest Control in MIT Residences

Click here for MIT's Helping Friendly Guide to Dealing with Mice and Other Pests

Rodent Control Recommendations for MIT

Rodents and pests are a community problem, and as the CDC notes in their webpages, it is not possible to eradicate them altogether. Controlling them is our goal. There are two main components in pursuit of this goal: the first is a building-wide strategy implemented by MIT and the House Manager; the second is local and implemented by individual residents in their homes.

First, the building-wide strategy.

There are three main preventative components in this strategy: building maintenance and sealing, general building cleanliness, and exterminating and trapping. Along these lines, MIT has initiated an aggressive policy of sealing holes and cracks where possible and repairing existing damage from mice. The House Managers are working effectively with the Housing office to maintain high standards of cleanliness around garbage collection areas and to eliminate clutter and trash, which might provide nesting material. Traps are being set in high-risk areas, always keeping in mind safety concerns in the community. We are working closely with exterminators to ensure the best service.

Second, the local strategy.

There are four essential components to a local, resident implemented strategy, which are required to discourage mice and other pests from taking up residence in our buildings. A checklist for inspections could be created from these components. The components involve food, garbage, clutter, and water.

A. Food

All food should be sealed and put away. If it is dry food, it should be in a glass or metal sealed container, not loose in an opened bag. All floors and countertops must be swept and wiped regularly. Even crumbs attract mice. Dirty dishes and utensils should be cleaned soon after use. When food is left on plates and forks in the sink mice will come to associate the sink with food. Grains should be stored in thick plastic or metal containers.

B. Garbage

Trash cans should be metal, or at the very least have a sealed lid. Trash should be removed frequently and regularly, and not allowed to overflow. The CDC particularly emphasizes this point:

"If storing trash and food waste inside the home, do so in rodent-proof containers, and frequently clean the containers with soap and water. Dispose of trash and garbage on a frequent and regular basis, and pick up or eliminate clutter."

C. Clutter

Stored papers, bags and heaps of clothes give mice a place to hide and nest. Clean is important, but tidy is also helpful.

D. Water

Rodents need water as well as food. Sources of water can come from leaky pipes, water filled sinks, and even over-watered plants. Cupboards under the sink should be kept as clean and dry as possible. If the refrigerator has a drain pan under it, the pan should be emptied regularly. Any plumbing concerns or questions should be referred to the House Manager immediately.

Some sources of information:

CDC sources:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hanta/hps_stc/stc_clean.htm