Rats appeared in a private house—what should be done? - briefly
Seal entry points, install traps or bait stations, and engage a licensed pest‑control service for thorough eradication. Remove food sources, store waste securely, and keep the premises clean to prevent future infestations.
Rats appeared in a private house—what should be done? - in detail
Rats entering a home signal a health and safety risk that demands prompt, systematic action.
First, confirm the presence of rodents by looking for droppings, gnaw marks, gnawed food containers, and audible activity at night. Record the locations to focus subsequent measures.
Next, eliminate access routes. Inspect the building envelope for gaps larger than ¼ inch around doors, windows, utility penetrations, vents, and foundation cracks. Seal openings with steel wool, cement, metal flashing, or appropriate caulking. Repair damaged screens and ensure doors close tightly.
Sanitation follows. Remove food sources by storing perishables in sealed containers, cleaning crumbs and spills immediately, and disposing of waste in containers with tight lids. Eliminate standing water and excess clutter that can provide shelter.
Implement control devices:
- Snap traps: place perpendicular to walls, baited with peanut butter or dried fruit, set in active zones. Check daily, dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
- Live traps: useful where capture and release are preferred; relocate animals at least 2 miles from the property.
- Electronic traps: deliver a lethal shock, require minimal maintenance.
- Bait stations: contain anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, designed to prevent non‑target exposure. Use only where legal and follow label instructions.
If the infestation persists or exceeds a few individuals, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive survey, apply rodenticides safely, and provide ongoing monitoring.
Finally, monitor the situation for several weeks. Re‑inspect for fresh droppings, new gnaw marks, or trap activity. Maintain the sealed environment and sanitation standards to prevent recurrence.
By following inspection, exclusion, sanitation, trapping, and professional intervention, a homeowner can eradicate a rodent problem and safeguard health and property.