How do you treat a cellar for rats? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, then use snap traps or professionally placed bait stations while keeping the cellar dry and free of food debris to prevent re‑infestation.
How do you treat a cellar for rats? - in detail
Treating a basement infested with rodents requires a systematic approach: identify, eliminate, and prevent re‑entry.
First, conduct a thorough inspection. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and pathways along walls, pipes, and utility openings. Use a flashlight to spot hidden activity in corners and under stored items.
Second, remove food sources. Store all consumables in sealed containers, clean spills immediately, and discard waste in tightly closed bins. Eliminate standing water by fixing leaks and using a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50 %.
Third, seal entry points. Apply steel wool combined with expanding foam to gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation cracks. Install metal flashing over larger openings. Ensure doors and windows close tightly; add weather stripping if needed.
Fourth, deploy control devices. Choose from the following options according to the situation:
- Snap traps: place perpendicular to walls, baited with peanut butter or dried fruit, set in high‑traffic zones.
- Live traps: use for humane capture, inspect and release far from the property.
- Electronic traps: deliver a rapid lethal shock, require minimal bait.
- Glue boards: effective for monitoring but not recommended as primary control.
Fifth, use rodenticides responsibly. Apply bait stations in concealed locations, following label instructions and local regulations. Keep stations out of reach of children and non‑target animals.
Sixth, monitor progress. Check traps and bait stations daily for several weeks. Record captures and signs of activity to assess effectiveness.
Finally, maintain preventive measures. Schedule periodic inspections, keep the area clean, and repair any new structural gaps promptly. Consistent vigilance prevents future infestations.