What should I do if rats have entered the apartment? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, set appropriate traps or bait, and call a professional pest‑control service while maintaining strict sanitation. Remove contaminated food, store waste securely, and keep the apartment clean to deter further infestation.
What should I do if rats have entered the apartment? - in detail
If you discover that rats have entered your living space, act without delay to protect health, prevent damage, and eliminate the infestation.
First, secure the area. Close doors and windows that lead to the affected rooms. Wear disposable gloves and a mask to avoid contact with droppings, urine, or saliva, which can carry diseases. Place a plastic sheet or newspaper over the floor to contain any debris that may fall when you inspect.
Second, locate entry points. Examine walls, foundations, utility penetrations, and gaps around pipes for holes larger than a quarter inch. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based filler; avoid using only caulk, as rodents can gnaw through it.
Third, remove attractants. Store food in airtight containers, clean countertops, and empty trash cans daily. Eliminate standing water by fixing leaks and drying damp areas. Dispose of any contaminated materials in sealed bags placed directly into an outdoor bin.
Fourth, set up control measures. Choose one or more of the following, based on the severity of the problem:
- Snap traps placed perpendicular to walls, with the trigger end facing the wall; bait with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Electronic traps that deliver a lethal shock; position near suspected runways.
- Live‑capture cages, if relocation is preferred; release at least five miles from the residence to reduce re‑entry risk.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticide, sealed according to local regulations; handle only with proper protective equipment.
Monitor traps daily, remove dead rodents promptly, and reset devices as needed. Record capture locations to identify high‑traffic zones.
Fifth, consider professional assistance. If the infestation exceeds a few individuals, if structural damage is evident, or if you are uncomfortable handling toxic baits, contact a licensed pest‑control operator. Provide the specialist with a map of observed activity and details of any sealing work already completed.
Finally, implement long‑term prevention. Maintain a regular inspection schedule, sealing new cracks that appear from settling or renovation. Keep landscaping trimmed away from the building’s exterior, and store firewood at least 18 inches off the ground and away from walls. Conduct quarterly checks of utility penetrations and drainage systems.
By following these steps—containment, exclusion, sanitation, targeted control, professional evaluation when necessary, and ongoing maintenance—you can eradicate the rodents and protect your apartment from future incursions.