8 Steps to Keep Rats Out of Your House

Scott's Turf and Pest Services

Steps to Keep Rats Out of Your House

Rodents, in particular rats, are closely linked to people. That’s because a home or apartment can provide them with the things they need to most thrive. So, what can you do to keep them away? At Scott’s Turf and Pest Control, a pest control company in Durham, NC, we are asked about this issue a lot. To help, here are 8 steps to take to keep rats out of your house.

1.) Fill holes, cracks and gaps

Rats can slip through holes the size of a quarter. Check your home for any opening that size and larger. Seal them up with the proper materials including wool, hardware cloth, caulk, cement, and plaster. You can also weatherstrip doors and windows if there are large cracks.

2.) Don’t feed them

Rats are experts at resourcefulness. They will find things to eat around your property, so be diligent in dealing with them. Cover your garbage cans at all times. Pick produce from your garden and trees as it ripens. Pick up and compost fruit and vegetables that fall to the ground. Feed outdoor pets during the day and don’t leave any leftover food lying around. Don’t store any pet food outside without making sure it’s in rodent proof containers.

3.) Remove their habitat

Don’t give rodents or other pests a place to live. Remove debris such as limbs, old cars or appliances from your property. If you have wood piles or lumber, store them at least 18 inches above ground and a foot or so away from your home and other walls. You can also remove heavy vegetation, as rats will consider this a great hiding place.

4.) Trim trees, shrubs and limbs back four feet from your home

Rats aren’t able to get into your home if they can’t climb or jump to reach it.

5.) Set traps inside

There are many options for products designed to catch rats inside your home that are not dangerous to pets and children, the most common being cage traps.

6.) Use baits and poisons outside

Any toxic baits or poisons should be used outside the home. Rats can potentially spread poisons inside your home, making it dangerous for everyone. Always read and follow label directions. Make sure rat bait is in an enclosed bait station. Keep these stations where your children and pets can’t reach.

7.) Check your neighborhood

Chances are that rats are not just your issue alone. They could be a neighborhood issue in general. Work with your neighbors to deal with this problem and check community areas for rat activity.

8.) Call the pros

In general, the most effective step for eliminating rats is to call on professional rat exterminators when you see evidence of a rat infestation. Rats are dangerous, so it’s best not to take a chance when dealing with them. Expert help will give you much better results than working on your own.

Have a rat problem? Contact Scott’s Turf and Pest Services for help!

Has your home been invaded by rats or rodents? At Scott’s Turf & Pest Control Services our technicians are trained in the most effective rat control and removal methods to help you regain control of your home.

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