Most homeowners only think about pests when they see one. An ant on the counter. A roach near the sink. A noise in the wall. But by the time pests are visible, the problem has usually been developing for a while.

In the Coachella Valley, pest infestations often begin in areas of the home that are rarely inspected. These spaces provide shelter, moisture, and easy access, allowing pests to remain hidden and undisturbed. Regularly checking these overlooked areas can stop infestations before they spread.

Here are the most commonly missed areas homeowners forget to inspect — and why they matter.

Read more: Why Squishing Ants Can Make Your Infestation Worse


Behind and Under Appliances

Refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and washing machines create warm, protected spaces with access to moisture. Small leaks, condensation, and food debris make these areas especially attractive to pests like ants and cockroaches.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, moisture and food residue are two of the strongest indoor pest attractants.

Read more: Gamers Beware: Roaches Could Be Hiding in Your PS5 or Xbox


Inside Cabinets and Under Sinks

The Most Overlooked Areas Homeowners Forget to Inspect for PestsCabinets under sinks often hide slow plumbing leaks that go unnoticed for months. Even minor moisture buildup creates ideal conditions for pests to thrive.

Ants frequently follow plumbing lines into kitchens and bathrooms, while cockroaches prefer dark, damp cabinet spaces that rarely get disturbed.

Read more: Why Cockroaches Come Out at Night (and What Daytime Means)


Garages and Storage Areas

Garages are one of the most overlooked pest entry points. Gaps under garage doors, cracks in concrete, and cluttered storage create easy access and shelter.

Cardboard boxes, holiday decorations, and unused items provide insulation and nesting material for insects and rodents. The University of California Integrated Pest Management program notes that cluttered storage areas significantly increase pest activity.
External link: https://ipm.ucanr.edu/


Attics and Rooflines

The Most Overlooked Areas Homeowners Forget to Inspect for PestsAttics are rarely inspected, yet they are common entry points for rodents. Small gaps near roof tiles, vents, and utility lines allow pests to enter and nest in insulation.

The USDA explains that rodents can enter homes through openings as small as a quarter.

Read more: What Are the Symptoms of a Black Widow Spider Bite? Coachella Valley


Closets and Spare Rooms

Closets and spare rooms often remain closed for long periods, making them ideal hiding places. Stored clothing, boxes, and low foot traffic allow pests to stay hidden without disturbance.

These spaces are frequently ignored until pests spread into more active areas of the home.

Read more: Are Brown Widow Spiders More Poisonous Than Black Widow Spiders


Why These Areas Matter

Pests don’t appear overnight. They establish themselves quietly in low-traffic areas where food, moisture, and shelter exist. By the time pests are seen in living spaces, the infestation is usually well underway.

Routine inspection of overlooked areas helps prevent:

• Structural damage
• Contaminated surfaces
• Electrical damage
• Expensive, widespread infestations


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should these areas be inspected?
At least twice a year, or anytime you notice unusual signs like odors, droppings, or recurring pest sightings.

Q: If I don’t see pests, should I still be concerned?
Yes. Many infestations remain hidden for long periods before becoming visible.

Q: Are garages really that important to inspect?
Absolutely. Garages are one of the most common starting points for infestations.


Take Action Before Pests Spread

Ignoring hidden areas gives pests time to establish, multiply, and spread throughout your home. The most effective pest control starts with early detection — before pests become a visible problem.

Frazier Pest Control specializes in identifying hidden pest activity and addressing infestations at the source. If you want peace of mind and long-term protection, professional inspection makes all the difference.

Don’t wait until pests take over your living space.
Call (760) 328-6115 or schedule an inspection today at:
👉 https://frazierpestcontrol.com/