Don't let rats become unwelcome roommates! Rodent infestations can be a real headache, posing health risks due to diseases they carry and causing damage by chewing through wires and insulation. Trying to figure out how to get rid of rats yourself can be a frustrating and time-consuming battle. Don't waste time and energy on DIY methods that may not work. Our experienced technicians are here to help! Contact Terminix today and reclaim your home with our effective rodent control solutions.

Rat tin dishes

First steps to get rid of rats

One rat can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation as rats breed very quickly. When figuring out how to get rid of rats in your house, taking decisive and effective measures is essential. Follow these steps to tackle the issue head-on:

  • Seal any potential entry points to prevent rats from accessing your home.

  • Eliminate water sources to make your property less appealing to these pests.

  • Properly store food in sealed containers to avoid attracting rats with easily accessible meals.

  • Regularly dispose of trash to minimize odors and residues that might attract rodents.

  • Safely remove any droppings to reduce the risk of contamination and disease spread.

  • Call a rat control professional like Terminix to help address the problem efficiently and effectively.

Signs of rats in your house

Learning how to get rid of rats starts with recognizing the signs of their presence. If you think you might be dealing with a rat issue, look for these signs of rat infestations:

  • Droppings: Dark droppings half-inch to three-quarter-inch long, especially near food packages, in drawers or cupboards, or under the sink.

  • Noises: Scratching sounds at night from the attic or behind walls.

  • Gnaw marks: New gnaw marks on furniture or wiring.

  • Footprints: Dirty tail marks and footprints in dusty areas.

  • Rat nests: Nests made of shredded paper, insulation, or fabric, often found in hidden areas.

  • Burrows: Holes around the yard or under the home, indicating rat burrows.

  • Rub marks: Rub marks, or sebum, deposits, can indicate where rats enter through holes or gaps.

If you suspect you have a rat problem, it's likely due to roof or Norway rats, as they are common house invaders. Roof rats, also known as black rats, like to climb and will most likely enter your home through any cavities in your home’s structure. Norway rats, also known as brown rats, like to stay close to the ground and can come indoors through gaps or cracks in your home’s foundation.

How to get rid of rats fast

Rat infestations pose a significant challenge for homeowners, primarily due to their extraordinary reproductive rate. A single pair of rats can rapidly multiply into a full-blown infestation if left unchecked. Early detection and intervention are crucial to preventing a population explosion. While DIY methods are available, they are often ineffective and time-consuming. Hiring professional rat control services is typically the quickest and best way to get rid of rats from your home.

Tech and customers

Calling in the rat removal professionals

At Terminix, our technicians know how to get rid of rats quickly and efficiently. With our rat control services, your technician will start with a thorough home inspection to uncover the root causes and potential entry points for rats. Next, your technician will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to tackle the existing infestation and discourage future occurrences. Having a yearly check-up for your home is essential to help keep an eye out for any signs of rats and quickly deal with any new problems. Get started today with a rat inspection!