How Construction and Renovation Projects Can Lead to Pest Problems in NYC
Construction is everywhere in New York City. Whether it’s a high-rise going up, an old brownstone being remodeled, or a restaurant upgrading its kitchen, change is part of life here. But while construction can improve buildings and neighborhoods, it can also create unexpected problems—especially when it comes to pests.
Most people don’t think about how a renovation or construction project might lead to more bugs or rodents. But the truth is, construction can disturb hidden nests, open up new entry points, and even attract pests that weren’t there before.
In this blog, we’ll explain how building work can lead to pest problems—and what you can do to protect your home or business during a renovation.
Why Construction Attracts Pests
Here are some of the main reasons construction work can cause pest issues:
1. Disturbed Nests and Hiding Spots
Many pests live in walls, under floors, or inside ceilings—areas that often get opened up during renovations. When construction begins, it can shake up their hiding places and force them to move somewhere else. That “somewhere” might be the nearest apartment, restaurant, or office.
Rodents, cockroaches, and even ants can scatter when disturbed. Suddenly, you’ve got pests showing up in areas where they weren’t before.
2. New Entry Points
Construction often involves opening walls, replacing windows, or cutting into floors. Even if the work is temporary, it can create gaps that pests take advantage of. Mice only need a hole the size of a dime to get inside. Cockroaches can squeeze through cracks as thin as a credit card.
If these entry points aren’t sealed up quickly, pests will find their way in—and they may not leave on their own.
3. Extra Food and Waste
Construction sites generate a lot of trash: wood, drywall, packaging, food wrappers, and more. If food is left out, or garbage isn’t properly sealed, it can attract pests looking for an easy meal.
Rodents are especially good at sniffing out food. Once they know there's something to eat nearby, they’ll return again and again.
4. Vibration and Noise
While pests usually avoid noise, the vibration from heavy machinery and tools can push them out of their hiding places. Some pests, like rats, may leave a construction area and move into the surrounding buildings, looking for a quieter, safer spot to hide.
Common Pests During Construction
Here are a few pests that often show up during or after construction:
- Rodents: Rats and mice may flee disturbed nests and search nearby buildings for shelter and food.
- Cockroaches: Roaches living in walls or plumbing may spread once construction starts.
- Ants: Ant colonies living underground or in walls can get disrupted and move to new areas.
- Termites: Construction can reveal termite damage—or attract termites to new wood.
- Flies: Open windows, doors, and trash bins can invite flies inside.
Pest Risks for Different Types of Properties
Apartments & Residential Buildings:
Construction in one unit can affect others. Shared walls and plumbing systems give pests a path to spread quickly through the building.
Restaurants & Commercial Kitchens:
Renovations can be great for business—but they also create a perfect storm for pests. Open walls, exposed food, and extra waste can lead to infestations if not managed properly.
Offices & Retail Spaces:
Pests don’t care if you don’t have a kitchen. They’ll take shelter anywhere that’s quiet, warm, and near a food source (like break rooms or trash bins).
How to Prevent Pest Problems During Construction
If you're planning a renovation, or there's a construction project happening near you, here’s how to stay protected:
1. Work With a Pest Control Expert
Before, during, and after construction, it’s smart to partner with a pest control company. At Positive Pest Management, we can inspect your space, identify risk areas, and create a plan to prevent pests from moving in. This is especially important in NYC, where close living quarters make it easy for pests to spread.
2. Seal Entry Points Quickly
As soon as walls or floors are opened, make sure they’re sealed up again properly. Use mesh, caulk, or steel wool to block any holes. Don't wait until the end of the project—pests don’t need an invitation.
3. Keep the Area Clean
Make sure your construction crew is following good cleaning practices. Trash should be removed daily, and food should never be left out on the job site.
4. Monitor for Pest Activity
Even if you don’t see pests, they may still be around. Watch for droppings, bite marks, or strange odors. If you notice anything unusual, call a pest control professional right away.
Final Thoughts
Construction and renovations can improve your property—but they can also stir up pest problems if you're not careful. By understanding the risks and taking the right steps, you can protect your space from unwanted guests.
Whether you're renovating a kitchen, remodeling an apartment, or managing a construction site in the city, pest control in New York should always be part of your plan.
Let Positive Pest Management help you stay protected before, during, and after your next project. Contact us to schedule an inspection or to learn more about how we handle pests in even the most challenging environments.
