(NC) Spring is the beginning of house hunting season, but the season's warmer temperatures and plenty of rain also launch increased pest activity. If you are moving this year, it is important to keep an eye out for building flaws that could attract pests indoors.

“Even minor flaws in a home should be addressed before or immediately after moving into a new home,” explains Dr. Alice Sinia, resident entomologist for Orkin Canada. “Many new homeowners do not know what to look for and, therefore, experience pest problems that could have been prevented.”

Avoid these five common mistakes:

1. Overlooking small cracks. Pests need shelter, food and water to survive — all of which are readily available in your new home. Cracks and crevices in baseboards, floors, walls and window sills provide habourage sites for crawling pests. Homeowners should promptly seal all cracks around doors, windows and pipes.

2. Ignoring insulation. Rodents and cockroaches nest in insulation, so it is crucial to inspect it for pest activity and damage. Be on the lookout for insulation that is wet, stained, matted down or covered with pest droppings.

3. Ignoring flooring and siding damage. Damage to your floors or siding could be evidence of termites, so look for buckling wood, swollen floors and ceilings, and areas that appear to be slightly water damaged.

4. Not repairing leaks. Even minor leaks can create major problems. They can cause decay or allow for the formation of slime, which are perfect breeding grounds for phorid flies, drain flies, dark-eye fruit flies and other small flies. When combined with warmer spring temperatures, the moisture can create a perfect home for cockroaches and other pests. Fix faucets, air conditioning units and water pipes if they are leaking, and avoid leaving any standing water on roofs or in gutters.

5. Using second-hand furniture. While it may be easier on the budget, second-hand furniture is a common mode of transportation for pests such as bed bugs, spiders and even cockroaches. If using second-hand furniture, inspect and quarantine the items before moving them indoors.

Above all, Sinia recommends identifying your licensed pest management provider as soon as possible so you can begin implementing an Integrated Pest Management program in your new home.

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