What should be done if rats chew the floor in an apartment? - briefly
First, locate and seal every entry point, then set traps or engage professional pest control. Afterwards, replace the damaged flooring with rodent‑resistant material and keep the area clean to deter future activity.
What should be done if rats chew the floor in an apartment? - in detail
Rats gnawing the floor can compromise structural integrity, create health hazards, and attract further infestation. Immediate action is required to stop damage and prevent recurrence.
First, isolate the problem area. Seal off rooms by closing doors and covering vents with fine mesh to contain the rodents. Turn off electricity to affected sections if wiring has been chewed, then inspect for exposed wires and replace damaged portions before restoring power.
Second, identify entry points. Examine exterior walls, foundation cracks, utility openings, and gaps around pipes. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or concrete filler to block openings larger than a quarter inch. Install door sweeps and weather stripping on all exterior doors.
Third, eliminate the current population. Choose one of the following control methods:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind furniture, and near known gnawing sites; bait with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑catch cages; release captured rodents at least 10 m from the building, following local regulations.
- Professional exterminator deployment of bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticides, applied in concealed locations to avoid accidental exposure.
Fourth, conduct thorough sanitation. Remove food sources by storing perishables in sealed containers, cleaning crumbs and spills promptly, and disposing of trash in sealed bags. Reduce clutter that provides hiding places.
Fifth, repair damaged flooring. Cut away gnawed sections, treat underlying joists with rodent‑resistant sealant, and install new flooring using materials resistant to chewing, such as metal‑edge laminate or ceramic tile. Apply a rodent‑deterrent coating to the repaired area for added protection.
Sixth, implement ongoing monitoring. Place motion‑activated cameras or infrared sensors near vulnerable zones. Check traps and bait stations weekly, and re‑seal any new gaps that appear.
Finally, document all actions, including dates, locations, and methods used. This record assists property managers, insurers, and future maintenance crews in evaluating the effectiveness of the response and planning preventive measures.