What should be done if rats appear on the ground floor? - briefly
«Contact pest‑control professionals promptly; seal entry points, eliminate food sources, and deploy traps or bait stations under supervision».
What should be done if rats appear on the ground floor? - in detail
Rats on the ground level require immediate, systematic response. First, identify all possible entry routes. Inspect walls, foundation cracks, utility openings, and drainage gaps; seal each with steel wool, cement, or metal mesh to prevent re‑entry.
Next, eliminate food and water sources. Store food in airtight containers, clean spills promptly, and repair leaking pipes. Remove clutter that could serve as shelter, especially cardboard, wood piles, and debris near the foundation.
Install control devices. Place snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected runways; use bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit. Position traps perpendicular to travel paths, with the trigger end facing the wall. For larger infestations, consider live‑catch cages, but ensure humane euthanasia or release in accordance with local regulations.
Apply targeted rodenticides only when non‑chemical measures fail. Follow label instructions precisely, use tamper‑proof bait stations, and place them out of reach of children and non‑target animals.
Conduct a thorough sanitation sweep after trapping. Dispose of captured rodents in sealed bags, then disinfect the area with a solution of bleach (1 part) and water (9 parts).
If activity persists after these steps, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can perform advanced techniques such as bait‑feeding stations, perimeter rodent‑proofing, and ongoing monitoring.
Maintain a regular inspection schedule. Check traps weekly, re‑seal any newly discovered gaps, and keep the ground‑floor environment free of attractants. Consistent vigilance prevents recurrence and protects structural integrity.