Rat infestations are more than just a gross nuisance. Rats cause extensive property damage every year, running into millions of dollars worth. They also chew on electrical wires, creating fire hazards. Gnawing on water pipes and insulation can cause leaks and flooding or even damage the structure of your house or business.
Additionally, rats can spread over 30 diseases and carry fleas that transmit dangerous zoonoses such as Bubonic Plague and Murine Typhus.Pest control in Los Angeles can help eliminate the dangerous rodents from your home or business.
Do I Have A Rat Infestation?
Rats are sneaky pests, setting up their nests deep in your property. You may never see or hear any sounds until the infestation becomes severe. Some of the common signs of rats infestation in Los Angeles are:
- Spotting dead or live rats within your property
- Rat droppings in drawers, cupboards, or attic
- Foul odors and squeaking sounds in your walls and attic
- Smudge marks on their established trail
- Rat burrows near your foundations
- Holes chewed through your floorboards and wallpapers
- Bite marks on your food packaging, electrical cords, and furniture
If you suspect a rat invasion in your home, call Los Angeles pest control experts immediately to determine the scope of the infestation.
What Causes A Rat Infestation?
Like all pests, rats invade homes, searching for food, water, and a place to nest. They will frequent places near food sources like the pantry and near water sources like sink lines. Dirty dishes, unpackaged leftovers, and pet bowls serve as excellent food and water sources for the invasive rodents.
The nasty pest also loves cluttered spaces within the home to set up a rats' nest. Rats will target areas with cardboard, paper, clothes, or insulation that they can gnaw to create nesting materials. You'll find infestations in attics, basements, eaves, and between walls.
Here Are Six Tips For Dealing With A Rat Infestation
You need to act fast to get rid of rats before they overrun your home. Here are six ways to get rid of the rat infestation.
- Eliminate Food Sources
Rats are resilient, feeding on just about anything, including soap, to survive. Eliminating all access to food might be a tall order. Washing the dishes and emptying your garbage cans can get rid of easy food sources for the rodents.
- Fix Any Water Leaks In The Home
You also need to eliminate water sources if you wish to get rid of the army of rats in your home. Fix any leaks on your piping or home appliances. Pour the water from your cat's or dog's bowl in the evening.
- Seal Holes And Gaps In Your House Structure
Inspect your foundation and exterior cladding for any gaps or holes the rats can use to access your home. Repair and seal any openings. Replace all damaged rodent screens in your vents.
- Set Rat Baits And Traps
Most homeowners prefer using rodenticides to kill rats and mice. You can set up food baits laced with poison across the home. Make sure your children or pets cannot reach the traps.
- Call In The Experts
If you find it challenging to eliminate the rat infestation alone, call in a professional pest control company. Experts can determine the size of the rat infestation before recommending the proper treatment plan to eliminate all rodents from your property.
What Can Rodent Control Solutions Do About Rats In My Home?
The best way to get rid of rats from your Los Angeles home is to hire a professional exterminator. At A Step Above Pest Control & Termite, our technicians use Integrated Pest Management techniques to identify and eliminate the existing rat infestation. We also put up measures to prevent future invasions. Contact us today to learn more about our rodent control services.