What should you do if there are rats in the attic? - briefly
Locate and seal every opening the rodents could use, then set snap traps or engage a licensed pest‑control service to eliminate them. Clean, disinfect, and repair any damage to prevent re‑infestation.
What should you do if there are rats in the attic? - in detail
Discovering rodents in the attic requires immediate, systematic action. First, protect yourself with thick gloves, a disposable mask, and eye protection. Turn off any ventilation that could spread droppings, and keep children and pets away from the area.
Inspect the space thoroughly. Identify entry points by looking for gnaw marks, gaps around vents, eaves, roof seams, and utility penetrations. Mark each opening for later sealing. Collect fresh droppings and urine stains for disposal in sealed bags; sanitize the area with a bio‑hazard cleaner after removal.
Seal all access routes. Use steel wool or copper mesh to fill small holes, then cover with cement, metal flashing, or heavy‑duty caulk. For larger openings, install hardware cloth or sheet metal. Ensure the attic remains airtight to prevent re‑entry.
Choose a control method. Options include:
- Snap traps placed along walls, near known runways, and behind insulation.
- Live‑catch traps if relocation is preferred, with immediate release far from the property.
- Professional bait stations containing anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, placed out of reach of non‑target animals.
Set traps or stations according to manufacturer instructions, checking them daily. Dispose of captured rodents in sealed containers, then disinfect the traps.
After elimination, clean the attic. Remove contaminated insulation, replace with new material if necessary, and apply a disinfectant approved for rodent waste. Vacuum all surfaces with a HEPA filter to capture residual particles.
Implement preventive measures. Trim tree branches that contact the roof, store firewood away from the building, and keep exterior lights off at night to reduce insect attraction, which in turn deters rodents. Conduct regular inspections each season to verify that all seals remain intact.
If infestation persists despite these steps, contact a licensed pest‑control professional for a comprehensive assessment and targeted treatment.