What should you do if there are rats in the house? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, eliminate food and water sources, and deploy traps or licensed bait; then contact a professional pest‑control service for thorough eradication. Maintain strict sanitation and regular inspections to prevent future infestations.
What should you do if there are rats in the house? - in detail
If rodents are discovered inside a residence, immediate action is required to prevent health hazards and property damage.
First, confirm the extent of the infestation. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, nests, and active pathways. Identify entry points by inspecting foundations, walls, pipes, vents, and gaps around doors and windows. Seal openings with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh, because rodents can compress through spaces as small as a quarter inch.
Second, eliminate food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and keep trash in sealed bins. Remove standing water and fix leaking fixtures to reduce moisture that attracts pests.
Third, deploy control measures. Choose from the following options, applying each according to the situation:
- Snap traps – place near walls, behind appliances, and in dark corners. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or nuts. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents with gloves and sealed bags.
- Live‑catch traps – suitable when removal without killing is preferred. Release captured animals at least one mile from the property, complying with local regulations.
- Electronic traps – deliver a quick, humane kill and contain the carcass for easy disposal.
- Bait stations – contain anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides. Install only in inaccessible locations, following label instructions and safety guidelines to protect children and pets.
Fourth, consider professional extermination if the infestation is large, persistent, or if structural damage is evident. Licensed pest control operators can conduct thorough inspections, apply integrated pest management techniques, and provide follow‑up monitoring.
Finally, implement long‑term prevention. Maintain regular inspections of the building envelope, keep landscaping trimmed away from the foundation, store firewood off the ground, and schedule periodic cleaning of gutters and drainage systems. Consistent vigilance reduces the likelihood of future rodent activity.