April Showers Bring May Pests – How Water Damage Can Advance Pest Pressure
You have likely heard the common phrase, “April showers bring May flowers,” but these spring rains can bring something less welcome: pests. Springtime can bring heavy precipitation and extreme wind to parts of the United States, which results in flooding and hail damage to buildings. Pests can thrive when water infiltrates these structures. Understanding how to identify structural water damage, why it attracts pests and how to monitor, prevent and manage this issue is a relevant seasonal topic in integrated pest management (IPM) for schools.
Common, inconspicuous indicators of water damage include discoloration of walls, peeling paint and musty odors inside facilities. You may have a water damage-related pest infestation if you notice these indicators paired with signs of pest presence (Kraus Restoration, 2026). To learn how to identify signs of pest pressure, check out this article on IPM Monitoring from the Pest Defense for Healthy Schools blog. If you suspect water damage in your school, report it to a custodian, school administrator or other designated staff member.
Subterranean termites, carpenter ants, cockroaches and rodents are some of the most common pests found in buildings after a water damage event. Subterranean termites can easily chew through water-soaked, soft wood. Carpenter ants do not feed on wood like termites but are nonetheless attracted to decaying wood and will tunnel through it to build their nests. Water-damaged environments provide hydration for rodents as well as insects for them to feed on. Additionally, cockroaches are dependent on a water source, and a large population can be sustained on a small amount (Kraus Restoration, 2026; Lawson, 2026). The presence of these pests can lead to structural damage and health hazards in a learning environment.
Acting quickly and correctly after water damage occurs is key to preventing these pests. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends that water damage should be cleaned within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. First, standing water should be removed, and additional moisture should be mitigated using dehumidifiers, fans and ventilation. Some items such as books, papers, carpets and ceiling tiles may need to be discarded (EPA, 2014). Ensuring proper drainage and sealing entry points in walls, windows, and roofs is a key preventative measure when dealing with water damage and structural IPM in general (Stone, 2018). Eliminating attractants and preventing entry are two core aspects of structural IPM that should be utilized routinely and not only in instances of water damage.
April rain does not have to translate into pest problems, but ignoring water damage almost guarantees they will. Use an IPM approach—keep an eye out for symptoms of water damage and pest pressure and speak up if you see something. Doing this can help keep your school a safe and healthy place to be.
Sources
How Water Damage Leads to Pest Infestations: Key Insights. Kraus Restoration. (2026, January 29). https://krausrestoration.com/the-connection-between-water-damage-and-pest-infestations/
Lawson, L. (2026, March 13). Water Damage, Leaks, and Moisture: What Pests They Attract. Nuclear Pest Control. https://nuclearpest.com/water-damage-leaks-and-moisture-what-pests-they-attract/
Stone, R. (2018). Sealing Roofs, Walls, Windows and Doors to Keep Water Out. UMN Extension. https://extension.umn.edu/protecting-home-rain-and-ice/sealing-roofs-walls-windows-and-doors-keep-water-out
Water Damage – Cleanup and Mold Prevention. EPA. (2014, August). https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2014-08/documents/table1.pdf