Rats in homes are more common than many people realize, and their presence can lead to significant problems, including health risks and property damage. This guide will help you understand how to get rid of rats in your home and protect your property from infestations.
How Common Are Rats in Homes?
Rats are a widespread problem, especially in urban and suburban areas. Here’s a closer look at where they thrive:
Urban Areas
- High population density: In cities, the close proximity of homes and businesses creates an ideal environment for rats. They have easy access to food, water, and shelter, encouraging their presence in residential areas.
- Older buildings: Many urban areas have older buildings with cracks, holes, and other entry points, making it easier for rats to get inside. These structures often provide ample hiding spots for rats to nest and breed.
- Public waste: Rats are drawn to areas with high levels of public waste. Overflowing garbage bins, litter, and poorly maintained alleys are common in urban settings, providing rats with a constant food source.
Suburban Areas
- Proximity to natural habitats: Suburban homes are often near parks, woodlands, or other natural areas where rats live. These locations offer rats an easy transition from outdoor environments to the warmth and safety of homes.
- Yard and garden features: Gardens, compost piles, bird feeders, and other outdoor features can attract rats to suburban properties. Once on your property, they may find their way into your home.
- Pet food: Unsecured pet food left outside or in garages can attract rats, leading to an infestation.
Rural Areas
- Farm proximity: Homes near farms or agricultural areas are at a higher risk of rat infestations. Rats are drawn to crops, grain storage, and livestock feed.
- Natural cover: Rural homes surrounded by fields, forests, or other natural cover are attractive to rats. They can use this cover to move into barns, sheds, and eventually your home.
3 Factors Contributing to Rat Infestations in Homes
Several factors can increase the likelihood of rats entering your home. These include the following:
Access to Food and Water
- Garbage and food waste: Rats are opportunistic feeders. They are attracted to any accessible food sources, including garbage, compost, pet food, and crumbs.
- Water sources: Rats require water to survive. Leaking pipes, pet water bowls, and condensation can give them the moisture they need.
Shelter and Nesting Sites
- Clutter: Clutter areas around your home give rats hiding spots and nesting materials. Basements, attics, garages, and storage areas are common places where rats build their nests.
- Warmth: Rats often seek out warm places during colder months, increasing infestations in the winter.
Structural Issues
- Entry points: Rats can squeeze through small gaps, holes, and cracks in your home’s foundation, walls, and roof. Poorly sealed windows and doors are also common entry points.
- Overgrown vegetation: Overgrown bushes, vines, and other vegetation near your home can provide rats with a pathway to your home. Tree branches that touch your roof can also offer easy access.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice signs of a rat infestation, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or strange noises, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here’s when you should consider calling a pest control service:
- Infestation: Professional intervention is necessary if the number of rats in your home seems overwhelming or is growing rapidly.
- Structural damage: Rats can cause significant damage to wiring, insulation, and other structural components of your home.
- Health concerns: Rats are known carriers of diseases that can pose serious health risks to you and your family. If you’re concerned about contamination, it’s best to seek professional help.
Take Action Against Rats With Aptive’s Rat Control Solutions
Don’t let rats in your home create more problems. If you suspect a rat infestation, contact us today for tailored expert assistance. Our team of experienced professionals can provide you with a customized rat control solution to keep your home protected.
