Who kept rats in the house? - briefly
The resident of the dwelling was responsible for housing the rats. They kept the rodents inside the premises.
Who kept rats in the house? - in detail
The presence of rodents inside a dwelling can be traced to a specific individual or group that deliberately or inadvertently maintained the animals. Evidence typically points to one of the following actors:
- Homeowner or landlord – direct control over the property allows intentional breeding, use of rats for experimental purposes, or neglect that creates a suitable habitat.
- Tenant or resident – personal habits such as storing food improperly, keeping pets that attract rodents, or deliberately keeping rats as companions.
- Commercial operator – businesses that require live rodents for research, culinary training, or pest‑control demonstrations may house them on‑site, often under a lease agreement.
- Unauthorized occupant – squatters or temporary occupants may introduce rats for survival needs, using the space as a shelter without permission.
Determining the responsible party involves examining records and observations:
- Lease and ownership documents – identify who holds legal authority over the premises.
- Inspection reports – note signs of rat activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting material, and their proximity to specific rooms or equipment.
- Witness statements – gather accounts from neighbors, maintenance staff, or other tenants regarding any observed rat‑keeping practices.
- Surveillance footage – review video evidence for direct interaction with the animals or for the movement of cages and feed.
- Pet licensing records – verify whether any resident holds permits for exotic or rodent pets.
When the investigation confirms that a particular individual intentionally kept the rodents, legal responsibility follows the applicable housing codes and animal‑control regulations. If neglect is established, the property owner may be liable for health‑code violations and required remediation. In cases where the rats serve a legitimate purpose—such as scientific research—proper licensing and containment measures must be documented to satisfy regulatory standards.