7 Things That Could Be Inviting Snakes to Your Basement

IF YOU WANT TO AVOID AN ENCOUNTER WITH ONE OF THESE PESTS, HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

Basements seem to be a never-ending source of problems, from leaky boilers to persistent mildew. However, there's one unexpected problem you may find yourself encountering in your basement, especially as the temperature dips: a visit from a snake. Read on to discover what pest control experts say could be attracting snakes to your basement, and how to prevent these critters from shacking up in your home.

RELATED: You're Inviting Snakes to Your Home If You're Not Cleaning This Up, Experts Say.

1
Wood piles
Shutterstock/Benedek Alpar

While keeping your firewood in your basement may help clear up room in your living room, doing so can also make that subterranean space more attractive to snakes.

"A small stack is enough for snakes to get attracted as it offers some cool and dark places to get cozy," says Ethan Howell, co-owner of Florida Environmental Pest Management.

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2
Blankets
Shutterstock/Billy F Blume Jr

You're not the only one who's eager to curl up under a warm blanket when the temperature dips—snakes may be seeking similar comfort in your basement.

"If you have blankets or rags in open containers, you're providing the perfect warm and cuddly environment for a snake to make their home," explains Eric Hoffer, owner of Hoffer Pest Solutions in Florida.

3
Stagnant water
Shutterstock/Diane079F

That leak in your basement is doing more than putting you at risk for a mold problem. "Snakes love moisture and if your basement has a steady supply of water or has stagnant water, it would be a conducive hideout for them," explains entomologist Ryan Smith, owner of Ant and Garden Organic Pest Control in Oregon.

4
Clutter
Shutterstock

If you want to keep snakes from taking up residence in your home, cleaning up the clutter in your basement is a good place to start.

"Snakes will be attracted to your basement if it offers protection," says Smith. "A messy basement provides exactly that, so you can help ward off these creeps by getting rid of junk and clutter."

5
High humidity
Shutterstock/mady70

Need some extra incentive to invest in a dehumidifier? Experts say that allowing your basement to remain damp could make it the perfect hideout for snakes.

"The best way to prevent snakes from entering the basement is to keep humidity levels low," explains Jeff Neal, founder of Critter Depot.

6
Mice
Shutterstock/torook

If you want to keep snakes out of your basement, addressing any existing pest problems in your space is a good place to start.

"Not only is the environment attractive, there is the potential for a snack as many basements have mice, chipmunks, and insects roaming around in a confined area," explains Andrew Christopher, owner of Western Mass Wildlife Removal.

RELATED: 7 Cleaning Habits That Attract Mice.

7
Unsealed entry points
Shutterstock/LBeddoe

While that gapping siding or space under your basement door may seem small, it may offer more than enough room for a snake to get inside.

"In order to prevent visits from our resident reptiles, you'll need to seal up that basement," says Christopher. "Common entry points are leaky or open windows, rotted sills, and drafty bulkheads."

RELATED: If You're Not Cleaning This Room, You're Inviting Snakes to Your Home.