What should I do if a rat has gotten into the apartment? - briefly
Seal any openings, set appropriate traps or bait, and call a professional exterminator while storing food securely and cleaning any droppings promptly.
What should I do if a rat has gotten into the apartment? - in detail
A rodent inside a residence requires swift, systematic action to protect health, prevent damage, and eliminate the infestation.
First, secure the area. Close doors and windows to limit movement. Turn off lights in the room, then use a bright flashlight to locate the animal. If it is visible, approach cautiously with a thick glove and a sturdy container or trap; avoid direct contact to reduce the risk of bites and disease transmission.
Next, set up humane or lethal traps. Recommended options include:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind appliances, and near known runways; bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or small meat pieces.
- Live‑catch traps for relocation; ensure release occurs far from residential zones, complying with local wildlife regulations.
- Electronic traps that deliver a quick, humane kill; position as with snap traps.
Check traps at least twice daily. Dispose of captured rodents in a sealed plastic bag, then place the bag in an outdoor garbage container. Clean the trap surfaces with a disinfectant after each use.
After removal, conduct thorough sanitation:
- Wear disposable gloves and a mask.
- Discard any contaminated food, packaging, or bedding.
- Wash surfaces with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercial rodent‑safe disinfectant.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery, then empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag.
Identify and seal entry points to prevent recurrence. Inspect the building envelope for gaps larger than ¼ inch, focusing on:
- Gaps around pipes, vents, and electrical conduits.
- Cracks in foundations, walls, and floorboards.
- Openings behind cabinets, under sinks, and in attic or crawl‑space insulation.
Use steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam to fill small holes; for larger breaches, install metal flashing or concrete patches. Install door sweeps and weather stripping on exterior doors.
If the problem persists despite these measures, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. They can perform a detailed inspection, apply rodenticides safely, and advise on long‑term exclusion strategies.
Finally, maintain a clean environment: store food in airtight containers, keep trash sealed, and eliminate standing water. Regularly inspect for signs of activity—droppings, gnaw marks, or urine stains—to catch any new intrusion early.