What should I do if rats appear in my apartment? - briefly
Seal all possible entryways, place snap traps or approved bait stations, and call a licensed pest‑control service for professional removal. Keep the unit clean, store food in sealed containers, and regularly inspect for new signs of infestation.
What should I do if rats appear in my apartment? - in detail
If you discover rodents in your residence, act quickly to prevent health hazards and property damage.
Secure the area. Close doors and windows to restrict movement, and keep pets and children away from contaminated zones. Wear disposable gloves when handling droppings or nesting material, and wash hands thoroughly afterward.
Eliminate food sources. Store all edible items in sealed containers, clean countertops, sweep floors, and remove pet food after each feeding. Dispose of garbage in tightly sealed bags and take it out regularly.
Identify and block entry points. Inspect the building’s exterior and interior for gaps around pipes, vents, utility lines, and foundation cracks. Use steel wool, cement, or metal mesh to seal openings no larger than a quarter‑inch, as rats can squeeze through very small spaces.
Set traps or bait stations. Choose snap traps, electronic traps, or multi‑catch cages for immediate capture; place them along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected runways, positioning the trigger side toward the wall. If using bait, select a high‑protein attractant such as peanut butter or dried fruit. Follow label instructions for placement and disposal, and keep traps out of reach of non‑target animals.
Consider rodenticides only as a last resort. If poisoning is necessary, select products approved for indoor use, place them in tamper‑resistant bait stations, and label them clearly. Monitor for dead rodents to avoid secondary poisoning of pets or occupants.
Engage professional pest control. When infestations are extensive, when structural damage is evident, or when you lack experience with traps and chemicals, contact a licensed exterminator. Professionals can conduct a thorough inspection, apply targeted treatments, and provide a written plan for ongoing monitoring.
Maintain long‑term prevention. Perform regular inspections of the building envelope, keep storage areas orderly, and schedule periodic pest‑management reviews. Document any new sightings and address them promptly to prevent re‑infestation.