How can you get rid of rats and mice in an apartment? - briefly
Seal all entry points, remove food sources, and place snap traps or bait stations along walls and in concealed areas. Conduct regular inspections and replace traps promptly to achieve complete eradication.
How can you get rid of rats and mice in an apartment? - in detail
Eliminating rodents from a residential unit requires a systematic approach that combines prevention, removal, and monitoring.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Identify gnaw marks, droppings, and nesting material along walls, behind appliances, and in storage areas. Trace any pathways that connect the interior to the outside, such as gaps around pipes, vents, and utility lines.
Seal all openings. Use steel wool or copper mesh to fill small cracks, then cover with cement, caulk, or metal flashing. Install door sweeps and weatherstripping to block entry beneath doors. Repair damaged screens and ensure that windows close tightly.
Maintain strict sanitation. Store food in sealed containers, promptly clean spills, and dispose of garbage in containers with tight‑fitting lids. Eliminate standing water by fixing leaks and drying damp zones, as moisture attracts rodents.
Deploy removal tools strategically. Place snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind furniture, and near identified activity zones. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractants. Set traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger side facing the baseboard. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
Consider bait stations if infestation is extensive. Use tamper‑resistant, pre‑filled stations containing anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides. Position stations out of reach of children and pets, preferably in concealed areas such as under cabinets or inside utility closets. Follow label instructions precisely to avoid secondary poisoning.
If signs persist after several weeks, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can perform detailed assessments, apply targeted baits, and provide ongoing monitoring plans. They also have access to rodenticides and equipment not available to the general public.
Finally, establish a monitoring routine. Conduct monthly visual checks, replace worn traps, and re‑seal any new entry points discovered during routine maintenance. Consistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and safeguards the living environment.