From the Wasatch Front to Cache Valley, Utah homeowners know that pests aren’t just a nuisance—they can be a real threat to comfort, health, and property. While some pests seem harmless, others carry diseases, trigger allergies, or cause costly structural damage.
At Elevate Pest Control, we’ve seen it all, and we know which pests Utah homeowners battle most often. Here’s a list of the 7 most common household pests in Utah—plus what you can do to keep them out.
1. Ants
Ants are among the most common household invaders in Utah. They enter homes in search of food and water, forming long trails across kitchens and pantries. Some species, like carpenter ants, can even damage wood.
What attracts them: Crumbs, spills, pet food, and moisture.
Risks: Contamination of food, structural damage (carpenter ants).
Prevention tips:
- Seal cracks in walls and foundations.
- Keep food sealed and counters clean.
- Fix leaky pipes.
If ants become overwhelming, Elevate Pest Control provides safe, targeted treatments to eliminate colonies at the source.
2. Spiders
Utah is home to many spider species, most of which are harmless. However, black widows and hobo spiders are a concern due to their venom. Even harmless spiders can cause anxiety for homeowners when infestations get out of hand.
What attracts them: Insects (their food source) and cluttered spaces.
Risks: Painful bites (in rare cases).
Prevention tips:
- Reduce clutter in basements and garages.
- Seal entry points.
- Keep outdoor lights off (to avoid attracting insects).
Professional treatments can reduce spider populations and the insects they feed on.
3. Wasps and Hornets
Aggressive and territorial, wasps and hornets are common in Utah yards during warmer months. They build nests under eaves, in trees, and sometimes inside walls.
What attracts them: Flowers, sugary drinks, garbage.
Risks: Painful stings, allergic reactions, dangerous swarming.
Prevention tips:
- Keep trash sealed tightly.
- Remove food and drink quickly during outdoor activities.
- Have nests professionally removed—never try DIY removal with large colonies.
Elevate Pest Control offers safe nest removal and preventive treatments to keep your yard enjoyable.
4. Rodents (Mice and Rats)
Rodents are a year-round issue in Utah, especially when temperatures drop. They can enter homes through tiny openings and multiply quickly.
What attracts them: Food crumbs, pet food, clutter, warmth.
Risks: Spread of diseases, gnawing on wires (fire hazard), structural damage.
Prevention tips:
- Seal gaps larger than ¼ inch.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Eliminate clutter.
Rodent infestations often require professional help since traps and store-bought products rarely solve the entire problem.
5. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are resilient pests that thrive in dark, damp environments like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. They’re notoriously difficult to eliminate once established.
What attracts them: Moisture, food debris, warmth.
Risks: Trigger asthma and allergies, contaminate food.
Prevention tips:
- Keep home dry and well-ventilated.
- Seal food tightly.
- Fix leaks promptly.
Elevate Pest Control uses proven treatments to eliminate infestations and prevent their return.
6. Boxelder Bugs
A seasonal nuisance in Utah, boxelder bugs invade homes in fall as they seek warmth. While they don’t bite or cause structural damage, they can stain walls, curtains, and furniture.
What attracts them: Warmth and shelter in fall and winter.
Risks: Cosmetic damage from droppings and secretions.
Prevention tips:
- Seal windows and doors.
- Vacuum bugs instead of squishing them.
- Treat exterior walls before infestation season.
Preventive treatments from Elevate Pest Control keep these bugs out before they become a problem.
7. Termites
Though less common than some other pests, termites pose one of the biggest threats to Utah homes. They silently chew through wood, often going undetected until damage is severe.
What attracts them: Moisture and wood sources.
Risks: Costly structural damage.
Prevention tips:
- Eliminate wood-to-soil contact around your home.
- Fix leaks and drainage issues.
- Schedule regular inspections.
If termites are found, immediate professional treatment is essential to stop the colony.
Why DIY Pest Control Often Fails
Many homeowners try store-bought sprays, traps, or baits, only to see pests return within weeks. That’s because most DIY methods address surface pests but fail to eliminate nests, colonies, or entry points.
At Elevate Pest Control, we use professional-grade treatments combined with prevention strategies to ensure pests are eliminated—and stay gone.
Takeaway: Don’t Let Pests Take Over Your Utah Home
From ants and spiders to rodents and termites, Utah homes face a wide range of pest threats. While prevention helps, infestations often require expert solutions.
At Elevate Pest Control, we specialize in protecting Utah families from unwanted invaders with safe, effective, and lasting treatments.
✅ Ready to defend your home against pests? Contact Elevate Pest Control today for a free inspection and customized treatment plan.
