How to get rid of rats that have settled in the house? - briefly
Seal all openings, place snap or electronic traps near walls, and eliminate accessible food and water sources; then apply rodenticide bait stations according to label instructions. Conduct weekly inspections to confirm the infestation has been eradicated.
How to get rid of rats that have settled in the house? - in detail
Rats that have established a presence inside a home require a systematic approach to eradicate them and prevent recurrence. The process begins with a thorough inspection to locate entry points, nesting sites, and food sources. Look for gnaw marks on wood, droppings near cupboards, and greasy smears along walls. Identify gaps larger than a quarter inch in foundations, vents, utility penetrations, and door frames; seal them with steel wool, cement, or metal mesh, as rodents can chew through softer materials.
Next, remove all potential attractants. Store dry goods in airtight containers, keep trash in sealed bins, and clean up spills promptly. Eliminate water sources by fixing leaks and drying damp areas, especially under sinks and in basements.
Implement trapping and baiting as the primary control methods. Choose from snap traps, electronic traps, or live‑catch traps, positioning them along walls, behind appliances, and near discovered activity. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractants. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rats according to local regulations, and reset traps until no further captures occur.
If bait stations are employed, select tamper‑ resistant units and place them in concealed locations away from children and pets. Rotate active baits every few weeks to maintain effectiveness and reduce the chance of bait aversion.
Maintain vigilance after the initial elimination phase. Conduct monthly inspections of sealed openings, repeat trapping in any new hotspots, and keep the environment inhospitable by preserving cleanliness and limiting access to food and water. In severe infestations or when structural damage is extensive, consult a licensed pest‑management professional to apply advanced control measures and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.