Tree branches touching the roof encourage rodent activity and can allow insects to bypass the applications made to your home.
Trim branches to create a minimum clearance of 5 feet and in areas where squirrels are active clearance should be increased to 10 feet.
Plants against the foundation provide harborage for rodents and insects.
Allow at least 12 inches along the foundation for air flow to dry the siding and soil. Trim shrubs up from the bottom and rake out leaf litter to expose rodents to predators. This also removes debris that can support mold and fungus that can then infect your plants.
Make sure soil or mulch isn’t blocking the foundation vents. This reduces air flow into the crawlspace, introduces unwanted moisture into your home and causes the metal screens to rust out.
Soil in contact with wood components of your home makes them vulnerable to decay and insect damage. (even if they are pressure treated)
Clear soil away from wooden steps, deck supports, skirting and siding.
Insure that the base of steps are placed on concrete supports and not setting on the soil.
Clear soil away from the siding to create a minimum clearance of 4 inches.
Grade soil to slope away from the structure and wood elements taking care to avoid creating a trench that will trap water against them.