How to get rid of rats in an apartment? - briefly
Seal all gaps, store food in sealed containers, and deploy snap traps or bait stations to eliminate the rodents. Conduct regular inspections and call a licensed exterminator if activity continues.
How to get rid of rats in an apartment? - in detail
Rats invade apartments when food, water, and shelter are readily available. The first step is a thorough inspection: locate droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting material, and trace pathways from exterior walls, utility openings, and floor vents. Mark every potential entry point.
- Seal cracks larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement; use expanding foam for gaps around pipes.
- Install door sweeps and weather stripping on all exterior doors.
- Repair damaged screens and cover vent openings with fine mesh.
Eliminate attractants by maintaining strict sanitation. Store all food in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs from countertops and floors, and empty trash daily into sealed bins. Remove standing water from pet dishes, plant saucers, and bathroom leaks.
Deploy control devices after exclusion measures are in place. Choose from the following options:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind appliances, and near identified runways; use bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Electronic traps that deliver a lethal shock; position similarly to snap traps.
- Live‑catch cages, if relocation is permissible; release captured rodents at least 5 miles from the building.
If traps are insufficient, apply anticoagulant baits in tamper‑resistant stations, positioning them out of reach of children and pets. Follow label instructions regarding dosage and placement.
When infestation persists despite these actions, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can conduct fumigation, apply rodenticides safely, and provide a comprehensive exclusion plan.
Prevent recurrence by scheduling periodic inspections, maintaining a clean environment, and routinely checking seals around entry points. Continuous vigilance ensures the dwelling remains rat‑free.