How can I protect my second home in France from mice while I am away?

Reader Question: My husband hates mice and is always worried when we leave our second home for so long that we will return to an infestation. What can we do to reduce the risks?

Prolonged periods away can lead to infestations of several pests, not only rodents but also insects such as cockroaches, ants, spiders, and mosquitoes.

This is particularly the case for second homes that are often in rural or sparsely-populated areas where such animals are common, and rodents are more common near rivers.

Generally, a vacant home in the summer is the most likely to be affected, as this is the main period where these creatures proliferate. Infestations over winter are still possible, as the lack of human life signals to animals that they can expand in the area without concern.

Basic steps to help reduce the risk of an infestation include good hygiene when staying at the home, as well as frequent cleaning of any garage or basement area. You should also keep the outside areas well-maintained, reducing any potential breeding grounds. 

Using strong disinfectant to reduce odours before leaving as part of a thorough final clean is also advisable.

For rodents specifically, ensuring a home is tightly-sealed is essential as even the smallest crack can allow mice inside. Thoroughly check there are no such possible entrances. 

Secondly, make sure that even if they do get inside, there is no available food source.

Any long-term food sources (shelf-stable cupboard goods) should be securely packed away.

Rodents can nibble through plastic and cardboard packaging, so ensure they are kept inside a tightly-sealed container (tupperware, wooden chest, etc). 

If possible, having a neighbour occasionally check in on the property will help. An obvious infestation will be easy to spot and you can contact pest control in advance of coming back.