What should you do if rats have infested your apartment? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, place traps or bait, and immediately contact a licensed pest‑control service to eliminate the infestation and prevent recurrence.
What should you do if rats have infested your apartment? - in detail
If rodents have taken up residence in your living space, immediate action is essential to protect health, property, and structural integrity.
First, confirm the extent of the problem. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, gnawed food containers, nests made of shredded paper or insulation, and audible scurrying, especially at night. Document locations to guide treatment.
Next, eliminate food sources. Store all pantry items in airtight containers made of metal or heavy‑duty plastic. Clean countertops, floors, and dishes promptly. Dispose of garbage in sealed bags and remove it from the apartment nightly. Repair any leaks; standing water attracts rats.
Then, block entry points. Inspect walls, floors, windows, doors, and utility penetrations for gaps larger than ¼ inch. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam to seal small openings; install cement or metal flashing for larger cracks. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens.
After sanitation and exclusion, set up a control system. Options include:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected runways; use bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Electronic traps that deliver a lethal shock; position similarly to snap traps.
- Live‑catch cages; release captured rodents at least 5 m from the building, complying with local regulations.
- Professional bait stations with anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides; these require licensed application.
Rotate trap locations every few days to cover new activity zones. Check traps daily, dispose of carcasses in sealed bags, and clean the area with a disinfectant solution.
If the infestation persists despite these measures, contact a licensed pest‑control service. Professionals can conduct a thorough inspection, apply rodenticides safely, and provide a guaranteed exclusion plan. Request written documentation of the treatment, warranty terms, and follow‑up visits.
Finally, maintain preventive practices. Conduct monthly inspections for fresh droppings or gnaw marks, keep food sealed, and repair any new cracks promptly. Consistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and safeguards the health of occupants.