The long hot days and warm nights make Florida an ideal place to live for many people. Unfortunately, many types of pests think so as well. Unlike in other parts of the country, pests in Florida never rest. They don’t hibernate during the cooler season, so as a Florida homeowner, it’s important for you to be proactive about protecting your homes from infestations, especially if you want to prepare your house to be sold. Below, you’ll find three ways in which you can keep your house safe from pests.

Put All Your Food Away

Bugs love food. Even the smallest crumb is enough to draw them into your home. This is why it’s crucial to keep all your food put away until you’re ready to eat it if you want to live a pest-free life in Florida. Keep your fruit in the fridge, make sure all your snacks, cereals, and grains are stored in air-tight plastic containers, and don’t let the kids leave food all over the house. If an insect finds its way into your residence and finds food, it will set up house, start a family, and, if it’s colony-minded, invite all its friends and relations over too. The same goes for pet food. Feed your animals outside and put any leftovers away when they’re done eating.

Watch Out for Termites

A termite infestation can be stressful. Termites can live in the wooden foundation of your home without you even realizing it. Florida’s hot and humid environment is a perfect termite breeding ground, so it’s important to recognize their signs and get rid of them as soon as possible. According to A Plus Pest Control, not only can a termite infestation be stressful, it can cause widespread, dangerous, and costly property damage to your foundation, leaving you with expensive repairs. Here are a few signs you may have termites:

• Clicking or munching sounds coming from within your home’s woodwork

• Flying termites around your home, known as swarmers

• The presence of what looks like white ants

If you notice any of these signs, make sure to call professional exterminators right away. Most home insurance policies don’t cover termite damage, so it’s crucial that a termite infestation is addressed as soon as possible to prevent costly damage to your Florida house.

Stay Dry

According to House Beautiful, pests gravitate to where there’s water available, as not only are they looking for a drink, but many species of insects use standing water as a breeding ground. Wet areas, such as a sink filled with dirty dishes and water, are like a bug buffet. Leaky pipes under the sink in the bathroom can also be attractive to pests, so make sure to keep those areas dry and call a plumber if needed. Cockroaches are always on the search for water. By getting rid of places pests can score a drink, they’re less likely to stay in your home.

Just because there are bugs everywhere outside doesn’t mean you have to find them inside too. While dealing with pests is a natural part of Florida living, that doesn’t mean you have to do so inside the house. By following these three simple tips, you’ll be able to keep your home pest-free and ready to sell.