There’s indeed no guarantee termites won’t return to your home, even after top-notch professional treatment. In areas where these hardy pests are prevalent, it can be tricky to banish them for good.

However, maintaining preventative measures, keeping a close eye out for early signs, and purchasing an ongoing professional treatment management plan can ensure you keep termites at bay and reduce the chance of any damage. Professional whole-house termite treatments can last five years or more.

Certain strong smells may help repel bats, though this is not a foolproof method and is best used in conjunction with other deterrence strategies. Scents like peppermint oil, eucalyptus, cinnamon, cloves, and mint are often suggested as natural remedies. To create a spray, you can mix two cups of warm water with half a cup of sugar and a few drops of your preferred essential oil. Apply this mixture using a spray bottle to possible entry points and throughout the affected area, such as an attic. While this home remedy is popular, evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited.

A squirrel in a chimney may sound like gnawing since they like to chew through a wide range of materials. You may also hear a persistent scratching sound if they’re trapped inside and unable to get out themselves. Other evidence of a squirrel in your chimney includes holes on or around your chimney as well as droppings or damage to roof shingles or wiring.

One of the best ways to get rid of mice is to prevent them from showing up in the first place with smart tricks—like placing a deterrent around the foundation of your house. Try building a barrier of rocks to make it harder for such rodents to get cozy in the small corners and crawl spaces that might give them access to the interior.