Rats are chewing the floor in an apartment—what should be done? - briefly
Inspect the apartment for openings, block them with steel‑wool and caulk, and place snap traps or bait stations to capture the rodents; afterwards, engage a licensed pest‑control service to eradicate the infestation and arrange professional repair of the compromised flooring.
Rats are chewing the floor in an apartment—what should be done? - in detail
Rodent damage to residential flooring requires immediate, systematic action. First, identify all gnawing sites and trace possible entry points such as gaps around pipes, vents, and baseboards. Seal openings with steel wool, cement, or metal mesh, because rodents can compress softer materials.
Next, eliminate food and water sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean crumbs promptly, and fix leaky faucets. Reducing attractants lowers population growth and prevents re‑infestation.
Control measures fall into three categories:
- Mechanical traps – snap traps or electronic devices placed perpendicular to walls near activity zones. Position bait (peanut butter, dried fruit) at the rear to ensure contact. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
- Chemical baits – anticoagulant blocks or pellets placed in tamper‑resistant stations. Use only in accordance with label instructions; keep stations out of reach of children and pets.
- Professional extermination – licensed pest‑control operators can apply integrated pest‑management (IPM) techniques, including bait stations, rodent‑proofing, and ongoing monitoring.
After removal, repair damaged flooring. Replace compromised sections, apply sealants to wood or laminate edges, and consider installing metal flashing beneath baseboards for added protection.
Finally, establish a preventative maintenance schedule: quarterly inspection of exterior walls, semi‑annual verification of sealed entry points, and continuous sanitation practices. Consistent vigilance prevents recurrence and safeguards structural integrity.