January Pests Are Active—Is Your Property Protected?

When the calendar flips to January, many people assume pest problems disappear along with the warmer weather. However, winter in Raleigh, NC can actually bring a new set of challenges for homeowners and business owners alike. As temperatures drop, pests look for warmth, shelter, and food—and your property may offer exactly what they need.

Understanding which pests are most active in January and knowing how to prevent them can help you avoid costly damage, health risks, and unwanted surprises. Below, we’ll cover the most common January pests in the Raleigh area and share practical prevention tips to help keep your property protected all winter long.

Why Pest Activity Increases During January

While insects may seem less visible in winter, many pests simply move indoors rather than disappear. Cold weather forces them to seek stable temperatures and reliable food sources. As a result, homes, offices, restaurants, and warehouses become ideal hiding spots.

Additionally, January often brings increased moisture from rain and occasional cold snaps, which can drive pests further inside. Therefore, winter pest control is just as important as seasonal treatments during spring and summer.

Rodents: A Top Winter Threat

Rodents such as mice and rats are among the most common January pests in both residential and commercial properties. These pests are excellent at squeezing through small openings and can cause serious problems once inside.

Rodents chew on wiring, insulation, and stored goods, which can lead to fire hazards, structural damage, and contamination. Moreover, they reproduce quickly, turning a small issue into a major infestation if left untreated.

Prevention Tips:

• Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines

• Store food in airtight containers

• Keep trash bins tightly closed and away from buildings

• Reduce clutter that can provide nesting areas

By taking these steps early, you significantly reduce the likelihood of rodent activity during the winter months.

Roaches: Hidden But Active

Although roaches are often associated with warmer seasons, they remain active year-round indoors. In January, they are commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms where warmth and moisture are readily available.

Roaches can spread bacteria and trigger allergies, making them a serious concern for homes and especially for businesses such as restaurants and healthcare facilities.

Prevention Tips:

• Fix leaky pipes and eliminate standing water

• Clean up food crumbs and spills promptly

• Avoid leaving pet food out overnight

• Seal cracks and crevices where roaches may hide

As a result of consistent sanitation and professional monitoring, cockroach populations can be kept under control even during winter.

Spiders: Seeking Shelter from the Cold

Spiders become more noticeable in January as they move indoors to escape cold temperatures. While most spiders in the Raleigh area are harmless, their presence can still be unsettling, especially in offices, retail spaces, and homes.

Spiders often follow other pests indoors, since insects are their primary food source. Therefore, spider activity may indicate a broader pest issue.

Prevention Tips:

• Reduce clutter in basements, attics, and storage areas

• Remove webs regularly

• Seal entry points around doors and windows

• Address other pest problems that attract spiders

In other words, controlling spiders often starts with controlling their food supply.

Ants: Winter Colonies Inside Your Walls

While ants are less active outdoors in January, some species establish indoor colonies where temperatures remain stable. Once inside, they can be difficult to eliminate without professional help.

Ants are attracted to food, moisture, and warmth, making kitchens and breakrooms common trouble spots.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep countertops and floors clean

• Store sweets and pantry items in sealed containers

• Address moisture issues promptly

• Avoid DIY treatments that may spread the colony further

Instead of temporary fixes, a targeted approach is often needed to fully resolve ant problems.

Termites: A Silent Winter Risk

Many people believe termites are only a warm-weather problem, but they remain active year-round. In January, termites continue feeding on wood inside structures, often unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred.

Because termite activity is hidden, regular inspections are critical for early detection.

Prevention Tips:

• Reduce moisture near foundations

• Store firewood away from structures

• Ensure proper drainage around buildings

• Schedule routine professional inspections

Consequently, early prevention can save thousands in repair costs over time.

Bed Bugs: A Year-Round Concern

While bed bugs are often associated with travel and warmer months, they remain a serious concern during January as well. In fact, bed bugs thrive indoors where temperatures stay consistent, making homes, hotels, apartments, and offices vulnerable year-round. These pests are excellent hitchhikers and are commonly brought in on luggage, clothing, furniture, or deliveries.

Prevention Tips: 

• Regularly inspect mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture, especially after travel or guests
• Avoid bringing secondhand furniture indoors without a thorough inspection.

For businesses, especially those with frequent foot traffic, proactive monitoring is critical. Because bed bugs can be difficult to detect and eliminate, professional treatment is often the most effective solution. If you suspect bed bug activity or want peace of mind, TruX Pest Control of Raleigh offers expert inspections and targeted bed bug control solutions to help protect your property.

Why Professional Pest Control Matters

Even with the best prevention efforts, pests can still find their way inside. That’s where professional pest control makes a difference. Trained technicians understand seasonal pest behavior and use proven methods to address current issues while preventing future infestations.

For business owners, proactive pest control is especially important to protect your reputation, customers, and compliance standards. Meanwhile, homeowners gain peace of mind knowing their families and property are safeguarded year-round.

Schedule a Free Pest Inspection Today

January is the perfect time to get ahead of pest problems before they escalate. Whether you’re noticing signs of activity or simply want reassurance, a professional inspection can make all the difference.

Contact TruX Pest Control of Raleigh today for a free pest inspection. Our experienced team provides reliable, eco-friendly solutions tailored to both residential and commercial properties in the Raleigh area. With proactive care and local expertise, TruX Pest Control helps you start the year protected, comfortable, and pest-free.