Start with inspection
Note where activity appears and inspect the surrounding building interfaces. Door bottoms, service penetrations, damaged seals and roof or wall junctions can all warrant closer investigation. A complete inspection considers how the site is used as well as the physical structure.
Coordinate control and exclusion
If pests are already present, the timing of proofing matters. Discuss how the active problem will be managed alongside the proposed building work. Exclusion should form part of an agreed plan, not simply cover up evidence of activity.
Use materials suited to the opening
The pest, substrate, weather exposure and maintenance needs influence material selection. A temporary patch may not provide a durable barrier. Identify the surface, the function of the opening and how it will be checked later.
Preserve the building’s function
Ventilation, drainage and moving parts need to keep working. Use an appropriate exclusion approach and involve a suitable trade where the work affects specialist building services.
Keep the improvement effective
Doors wear, goods move and contractors create new openings. Include proofing checks in routine maintenance and review waste, storage and vegetation conditions alongside pest monitoring.