The Renter’s Guide to Renter-Safe Pest and Draft Solutions (Without Risking Your Deposit)

Renters can block pest entry and cold drafts using removable solutions like adhesive-backed weatherstripping, door sweeps, and temporary sealing tape. These methods seal quarter-inch gaps where mice enter and cold air infiltrates—without permanent modifications that could jeopardize your security deposit at move-out. These are renter-safe pest and draft solutions that work without risking your deposit.

That gap under your apartment door? It's doing double duty as a mouse highway and a cold air expressway. And if you're renting, you're stuck in an awkward spot—wanting to fix the problem but worried about losing part of your deposit for "unauthorized modifications." That’s why renter-safe pest and draft solutions are essential for apartment living.

I've talked to dozens of renters who've dealt with exactly this situation. The good news: you don't need your landlord's permission to use temporary, removable solutions. The better news: these fixes actually work. Most renter-safe pest and draft solutions require no tools and leave no damage behind.

This guide covers what you can realistically do as a renter—solutions that seal gaps against pests and drafts, won't damage surfaces, and come off cleanly when you move. We'll skip the permanent fixes that require landlord approval and focus on what you can do this weekend using renter-safe pest and draft solutions.

Why Gaps Matter More Than You Think

Here's the uncomfortable truth: mice can squeeze through gaps as small as a quarter-inch—about the diameter of a pencil [1]. Their flexible skeletons and lack of rigid collarbones allow them to compress through surprisingly small openings. If a pencil can fit under your door, so can a mouse.

Those same gaps let cold air pour in during winter. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that air sealing and weatherization can reduce heating and cooling costs by around 15% [2]. For renters paying their own utilities, that's real money—potentially over $100 annually on a typical heating bill. Using renter-safe pest and draft solutions helps reduce both energy loss and pest entry without permanent installation.

According to Fannie Mae research, about 28% of renters cite maintenance issues as a significant challenge, with pest problems being among the most common complaints within that group [3]. Meanwhile, nearly half of renter households spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs [4], making every dollar of preventable loss—whether to utility bills or pest-damaged belongings—genuinely painful.

Finding Where Gaps Hide

Before you buy anything, spend fifteen minutes locating your actual problem areas. Gaps aren't always obvious.

Where Renter-Safe Pest and Draft Solutions Are Most Effective

The Pencil Test (for Pest Entry)

A simple pencil test reveals gaps that mice and drafts use—renter-safe pest and draft solutions can seal these openings without risking your deposit.

Grab a standard pencil and try sliding it under doors, around window frames, and where pipes enter walls. If the pencil fits, you've found a potential mouse entry point. Pay special attention to:

• Door thresholds, especially exterior and garage-to-home doors

• Gaps around pipes under sinks and behind appliances

• Spaces where cables or wires enter walls

• Cracks where baseboards meet floors

  
  

The Hand Test (for Drafts)

On a cold, windy day, hold your hand near window and door edges. Moving air is easy to feel. For a more precise check, light a candle or incense stick and watch how the smoke moves near suspected gaps. Steady horizontal drift indicates significant air infiltration.

Common draft sources include: the gap between door and threshold, weatherstripping that's compressed or missing, window frames with dried or cracked caulking, and outlet covers on exterior walls.

Renter-Safe Pest and Draft Solutions That Actually Work

Not every product labeled "easy to use" is actually renter-friendly. Here's what works for temporary applications—and what to avoid. These are the core renter-safe pest and draft solutions that don’t violate lease terms.

Door Sweeps and Draft Stoppers

The simplest solution for under-door gaps. Adhesive-backed door sweeps attach to the door bottom and create a seal against the threshold. Look for sweeps with silicone or rubber fins rather than brush bristles—bristle sweeps allow more air and pest passage. These are among the most common renter-safe pest and draft solutions available online.

Cost: $8-25 depending on quality and width

Removal: Peel off adhesive; may need adhesive remover for residue

Effectiveness: Good for drafts; helps with pest entry but gaps at corners may persist

Draft stoppers (door snakes) require no installation—just place against the door when closed. They're completely reversible but need repositioning each time you use the door.

Self-Adhesive Weatherstripping

Foam tape weatherstripping works for door and window frames where compression creates a seal. EPDM rubber versions last longer than basic foam but cost more. For renters, the key consideration is adhesive type—look for products marketed as "removable" or "clean release." These remain popular renter-safe pest and draft solutions.

Cost: $5-15 per door or window

Removal: Usually peels off; foam types may leave residue requiring Goo Gone or similar

Effectiveness: Very good for drafts when properly compressed; moderate for pest prevention

Specialty Sealing Tape

For more demanding applications, particularly wide gaps or areas needing stronger seals, specialty waterproof tapes offer an option. Products like FloodTape®—originally designed for emergency flood protection—can be repurposed for draft and pest sealing. The 8-inch width covers larger gaps than standard weatherstripping, and the formulation is designed for clean removal without residue or paint damage.

Important note: This is an off-label use. FloodTape®'s primary purpose is creating temporary watertight barriers during flood emergencies. Using it for draft sealing works, but you're essentially repurposing a specialized product. Consider this option when standard weatherstripping won't cover your gap width or when you specifically need residue-free removal.

Cost: $35-50 for 20-foot roll (more expensive than standard weatherstripping)

Removal: Designed for clean removal; formulated not to damage paint

Effectiveness: Excellent seal; works best on smooth surfaces

Steel Wool and Copper Mesh (for Pipe Gaps)

For gaps around pipes that mice use as entry points, steel wool stuffed into the opening creates a barrier mice won't chew through. Copper mesh (sold as "mouse blocker" or similar) lasts longer and doesn't rust. Neither damages surfaces and both remove easily.

Cost: $5-12 for enough to handle multiple gaps

Removal: Pull out; no residue

Effectiveness: Excellent for pest prevention around pipes and utility entry points

What to Avoid

Some common recommendations don't work well for renters:

• Permanent caulk: Creates permanent modifications that may violate your lease and require repair at move-out

• Expanding foam: Nearly impossible to remove cleanly; will likely cost you deposit money

• Screw-mounted door sweeps: Leave holes in the door; requires repair at move-out

• Hardware cloth or metal screening: Typically requires staples or fasteners that damage surfaces

  
  

How to Apply Renter-Safe Pest and Draft Solutions

Step-by-Step: Sealing Your Rental

Here's a practical approach that takes about an hour and covers most apartments.

1. Document existing conditions. Before touching anything, photograph door thresholds, window frames, and any areas you plan to seal. Include timestamps. This protects you at move-out if there's any question about pre-existing damage versus your temporary modifications.

2. Clean all surfaces. Adhesive products fail on dirty surfaces. Wipe down door thresholds, window frames, and any areas receiving tape or weatherstripping with isopropyl alcohol. Let dry completely—at least 10 minutes.

3. Check surface temperature. Most adhesive products need surface temperatures above 50°F for proper bonding. If your apartment is cold, warm the surface with a hair dryer first. This step matters more than most people realize.

4. Start with the biggest gap. Usually the front door threshold. Apply your door sweep or sealing tape, pressing firmly for full contact. For weatherstripping, work in sections rather than trying to apply one long piece.

5. Address pipe gaps with steel wool. Check under sinks and behind appliances. Push steel wool or copper mesh firmly into any gap large enough for a pencil.

6. Test your work. Run the hand or candle test again. You should notice a significant reduction in felt airflow. For pest entry, verify the pencil no longer fits through sealed gaps.

   
   

The Cost-Benefit Reality

Let's be honest about what you're actually saving and spending.

Typical Materials Cost

• Door sweep: $15-25

• Weatherstripping (3-4 windows): $20-40

• Steel wool/copper mesh: $8-12

• Specialty sealing tape (optional): $35-50

• Total for most apartments: $45-80

  
  

Potential Savings

The DOE's Weatherization Assistance Program reports that comprehensive weatherization saves households an average of $372 annually [5]. Your results will be more modest—you're doing selective sealing, not a complete weatherization. A realistic estimate for draft reduction on 2-3 doors and several windows: $60-150 annually on heating and cooling.

The pest prevention value is harder to quantify but potentially significant. A single mouse infestation can mean contaminated food, damaged belongings, and the stress of dealing with the problem. Prevention is considerably cheaper than reaction.

Security Deposit Considerations

According to Zillow research, the typical security deposit runs around $750 nationally, though this varies significantly by market—many renters pay one month's rent, which in high-cost areas means $1,200 or more [6]. Protecting that deposit matters.

Temporary, removable solutions minimize risk. But "removable" doesn't mean "invisible." Before move-out, budget time for:

• Careful removal of all tape and weatherstripping

• Adhesive residue removal with appropriate solvents

• Cleaning surfaces to pre-installation condition

• Photographing restored surfaces (with timestamps)

  
  

When to Contact Your Landlord Instead

A renter calls his landlord after spotting mice or evidence of infestation, taking action using renter-safe pest and draft solutions to protect his home and security deposit.

Some problems aren't yours to solve. Contact your landlord or property manager when:

• You see actual mice or evidence of established infestation (droppings, gnaw marks)

• Gaps result from structural damage or building settling

• Weather stripping was originally installed by the landlord and has failed

• Windows or doors don't close properly due to frame issues

• Problems exist in common areas affecting multiple units

  
  

Most jurisdictions require landlords to maintain habitable conditions, which typically includes reasonable pest prevention and weatherization. Document problems in writing (email creates a paper trail) and give reasonable time for response before taking action yourself.

Take Action This Weekend

You don't need landlord permission to use temporary, removable solutions. You don't need special skills. And you don't need to spend hundreds of dollars.

Start with the pencil test around your doors and windows. Identify the worst gaps. Pick up a door sweep and some weatherstripping. In an hour, you can meaningfully reduce both pest entry points and cold air infiltration.

The difference between a comfortable, pest-free apartment and one that bleeds heat and hosts mice often comes down to sealing a few quarter-inch gaps. That's a problem you can solve this weekend—without risking your security deposit.

For specialized sealing needs—especially wider gaps or situations requiring guaranteed residue-free removal—explore FloodTape®'s waterproof sealing solutions. Originally designed for emergency flood protection, it handles the demanding applications where standard weatherstripping falls short.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really seal gaps without damaging my rental?

Yes, using the right products. Adhesive-backed weatherstripping, door sweeps, steel wool, and specialty tapes designed for clean removal don't cause permanent damage when properly installed and removed. The key is avoiding permanent solutions like caulk, expanding foam, or fastener-mounted hardware. Always photograph surfaces before installation and after removal to document that you've restored them to original condition.

How small a gap can mice actually fit through?

Pest control research confirms that mice can squeeze through openings as small as 6-7 millimeters—roughly a quarter-inch or the diameter of a standard pencil [1]. Their flexible skeletons allow them to compress their bodies through surprisingly small spaces. This is why the "pencil test" works: if a pencil fits, the gap needs sealing for effective pest prevention.

Do I need my landlord's permission for temporary sealing?

Generally no, for truly temporary and removable solutions. Most leases prohibit "alterations" or "modifications," which typically refers to permanent changes. Applying removable weatherstripping or using a door snake isn't a modification—it's more like placing a rug. That said, review your specific lease language. If uncertain, a quick email to your landlord explaining you want to install removable weatherstripping usually results in approval.

What's the difference between pest prevention and draft prevention products?

There's significant overlap, but some products excel at one or the other. For drafts, compressible foam weatherstripping creates an effective air seal but may leave small gaps at corners that mice can exploit. For pests, steel wool and copper mesh block entry but don't provide air sealing. Door sweeps with solid rubber or silicone fins work reasonably well for both. For maximum protection against both problems, you may need to layer solutions—weatherstripping for air sealing plus steel wool at pipe penetrations for pest prevention.

How do I remove adhesive residue at move-out?

Start by peeling products slowly at a low angle rather than pulling straight out. For remaining residue, commercial products like Goo Gone, or household alternatives like cooking oil or rubbing alcohol, work on most adhesives. Apply the solvent, let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then wipe with a soft cloth. For stubborn residue, a plastic scraper avoids scratching surfaces. Always test solvents on an inconspicuous area first, and allow surfaces to dry completely before your move-out inspection.

Works Cited

[1] Terminix — "House Mice: Identification, Habitat & Control." https://www.terminix.com/rodents/mice/house/. 

[2] U.S. Department of Energy — "Air Sealing Your Home." https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/air-sealing-your-home. 

[3] Fannie Mae — "Research Identifies Renter Challenges." https://www.fanniemae.com/research-and-insights/perspectives/research-identifies-renter-challenges. 

[4] U.S. Census Bureau — "Nearly Half of Renter Households Are Cost-Burdened." https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2024/renter-households-cost-burdened-race.html. Published: September 12, 2024. 

[5] U.S. Department of Energy — "Weatherization Assistance Program." https://www.energy.gov/scep/wap/weatherization-assistance-program. 

[6] Zillow — "What Are Security Deposits for Apartments?" https://www.zillow.com/learn/what-are-security-deposits-for-apartments/. Published: August 1, 2025. 

[7] ENERGY STAR/EPA — "Methodology for Estimated Energy Savings." https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/methodology. 

[8] U.S. Census Bureau — "Nearly All U.S. Counties Had More Homeowners Than Renters." https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2024/acs-5-year-homeowners-renters.html. Published: 2024. 

About the Author

Author Byline: Written by the FloodTape® editorial team in collaboration with home weatherization specialists and property management professionals. Our guidance draws on Department of Energy research, pest control industry best practices, and feedback from renters who have successfully implemented these solutions.

Review Note: This article was fact-checked against primary sources including U.S. Census Bureau housing data, Department of Energy weatherization research, and peer-reviewed pest control guidance. All statistical claims are directly cited to verifiable government or industry sources.

Disclosure: FloodTape® is mentioned in this article as one option among several for gap sealing. The product's primary design purpose is emergency flood protection; its use for routine weatherization is an off-label application. Readers should consider their specific needs and compare available products before purchasing.

Legal Disclaimer: Lease terms vary significantly. Before installing any modifications—even temporary ones—review your lease agreement and consider notifying your landlord. Laws regarding tenant modifications, security deposit deductions, and landlord maintenance responsibilities vary by state and municipality. This article provides general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. For questions about your rights and obligations, consult with a local tenant rights organization or attorney.