How to remove rats from under the floor in an apartment? - briefly
Seal cracks and gaps, install snap or live traps and appropriate bait beneath the floorboards, and regularly monitor until rodent activity ceases.
How to remove rats from under the floor in an apartment? - in detail
Rats living beneath the floorboards pose health risks and cause structural damage. Effective eradication requires a systematic approach that combines inspection, exclusion, sanitation, and control measures.
First, locate the infestation. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, gnawed insulation, and audible scurrying. Use a flashlight to examine the cavity from any access panel or vent. Mark all entry points, including gaps around pipes, utility lines, and cracks in the foundation.
Second, seal openings. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to small holes, then cover with expanding polyurethane foam or cement. For larger gaps, install metal flashing or hardware cloth (¼‑inch mesh) to prevent re‑entry. Ensure vent covers are fitted with fine mesh screens.
Third, eliminate food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers, clean up crumbs immediately, and dispose of garbage in sealed bins. Remove pet food after each feeding and avoid leaving water dishes unattended.
Fourth, set traps strategically. Place snap traps or electronic kill traps directly behind walls, near identified runways, and at the base of walls. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or raw liver. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the wall, to increase capture rates. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
Fifth, consider bait stations. If the infestation is extensive, use tamper‑resistant anticoagulant bait stations placed in concealed locations. Follow label instructions, keep stations away from children and pets, and monitor consumption.
Sixth, maintain a dry environment. Repair leaking pipes, seal condensation sources, and install a dehumidifier if humidity is high. Dry conditions discourage nesting.
Seventh, conduct follow‑up inspections. After a week, re‑examine the area for new signs of activity. Re‑apply sealing material to any newly discovered openings. Continue trapping for several weeks to ensure the population is fully eradicated.
If the problem persists despite these steps, consult a licensed pest‑control professional. They can perform ultrasonic surveys, apply rodenticides safely, and provide long‑term exclusion solutions.