Will laying a carpet prevent mice?
Carpets will do nothing at all against mice – in point-of-fact it will help them conceal themselves somewhat better. Get a cat. The British Isles has a long tradition of ratting cats, and I understand that the British Shorthair has a very good reputation to this end. As to what else could be under the floor – rats, squirrels, chipmunks (although I don’t think you have such there) some insects, or any number of other similar critters. There are other expedients you might try if a cat is not in the cards for you. Sadly, they will also serve to affect you as well. But, if you can get permission from your landlord, you might try putting moth crystals (not mothballs as they take a very long time to dissipate). under the floor. This will drive most rodents away in a fairly short period of time – but it won’t be very pleasant or healthy for you during that time because of the smell. Traps will catch the stupid ones – and poisons will cause secondary kills (predators (owls, foxes, cats, dogs)
