What should you do if rats appear in a cellar? - briefly
Identify and seal all entry points, then use snap traps or bait stations to capture the rodents. If the problem continues, engage a licensed pest‑control professional for comprehensive removal.
What should you do if rats appear in a cellar? - in detail
When rodents are found in a basement, immediate action prevents damage, disease spread, and population growth.
First, identify how the animals entered. Inspect walls, floor joists, utility penetrations, and vents for gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Seal openings with steel wool, caulk, or cement‑based mortar; steel wool resists gnawing, and cement provides a permanent barrier.
Next, eliminate food and water sources. Store all provisions in sealed containers, clean up spilled grains, and repair leaking pipes. Remove clutter that offers shelter, such as cardboard boxes or stored fabrics.
Set up control measures. Choose from the following options, applying each according to the situation:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind objects, and near known activity signs; use bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑catch traps for humane removal; release captured rodents far from residential areas, complying with local regulations.
- Electronic traps that deliver a quick, lethal shock; position them where rodents travel.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticide; install only where children and pets cannot access, and follow label instructions precisely.
Monitor trap results daily. Dispose of dead rodents in sealed bags and discard them with regular waste. Clean the area with a disinfectant solution to remove urine and droppings, which can harbor pathogens.
If infestation persists after sealing entry points and deploying traps, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can conduct a thorough survey, apply rodenticides safely, and recommend long‑term exclusion strategies.
Finally, maintain preventive practices: schedule periodic inspections, keep the cellar dry, and store items off the floor. Consistent vigilance stops re‑infestation before it escalates.