Rats don’t just damage property, they also pose serious health risks. They can spread diseases like hantavirus or leptospirosis through their droppings and urine. For Orlando homeowners, keeping these critters out requires proactive measures to remove attractants and block access points.
Here’s how to protect your home from an infestation.
Key Takeaways
- Small gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior are prime entry points for rats, so sealing them is a top priority.
- Food left out or stored improperly attracts rats, making airtight containers and regular cleanup essential for keeping them away.
- An unkempt yard with overgrown plants and debris creates hiding spots that encourage rats to stick around your property.
- Professionals should quickly address early signs of rat activity to prevent a bigger infestation.
How to Keep Your Orlando Home Rat-Free
Preventing rodents like rats is about protecting your property and your family’s health. Here’s how to do that.
Seal Off Entry Points
Rats can squeeze through gaps as small as a dime, so it’s important to inspect your home for potential entry points. Check your foundation, walls, and roof vents for cracks or holes, and seal them with steel wool followed by caulk.
Doors and windows are another common entry point—add weather stripping to close gaps and repair torn screens. Don’t forget to cover crawl spaces and attic openings with metal mesh to block these critters from sneaking in.
Remove Food Sources
Food is one of the biggest attractants for rats, and cutting off their supply is key to prevention.
- Store pet food in airtight containers, and avoid leaving bowls out overnight.
- Use garbage bins with tight-fitting lids and take out the trash regularly.
- Keep your pantry organized using rat-proof containers and immediately clean up spills or crumbs.
- Wipe down counters and sweep floors daily to remove lingering food particles.
Get Rid of Nesting Materials
Rats build their nests using soft, hidden materials, so reducing clutter inside and outside your home is essential.
- Clear away yard debris like leaves, woodpiles, and other items that could shelter rodents.
- Declutter your attic, garage, and crawl spaces, and store items in durable plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes.
Maintain Your Yard
A well-maintained yard creates a less inviting environment for rats.
Trim overgrown trees and shrubs, especially those that touch or overhang your roof, as they can act as bridges for roof rats. Keep your grass mowed and promptly remove fallen fruit or nuts from trees to reduce food sources.
Address Signs of Rats Quickly
If you notice scurrying noises, droppings, gnaw marks, or even gnawing on electrical wires, act immediately to avoid a larger problem.
Place traps in areas where rats are active. Snap traps are an effective, affordable solution, while bait stations offer another option—just ensure they’re pet- and child-safe.
Acting quickly can prevent a minor issue from turning into a full-blown infestation.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Rats are persistent, so regular inspections are essential to keeping your home rodent-free.
Rodent control professionals can identify entry points, assess your home for vulnerabilities, and provide preventative measures tailored to your Orlando property. Inspections are a proactive way to stop rodent problems before they start.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY solutions like traps and rodent-proofing can help, persistent rat issues require professional intervention. At Rowland Pest Management, we offer free inspections to assess the problem and provide customized rodent control solutions. With our expert help, you can get rid of rats and prevent them from returning.
Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and safeguard your Orlando home against rodent infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wondering how to protect your home from rats? Here are answers to common questions Orlando homeowners ask about keeping these pests out.
When are rats most likely to invade my Orlando home?
Rats are especially active in the cooler months, searching for warmth and shelter. Fall and winter are prime times for infestations, so it’s smart to inspect your home for entry points before temperatures drop.
Can my yard’s landscaping attract rats?
Yes! Overgrown trees, shrubs, and yard clutter create perfect hiding spots for rats. Trimming back vegetation and keeping your yard neat makes your home far less inviting to these pests.
What kinds of rats are common in Orlando?
In Central Florida, roof rats and Norway rats are the usual culprits. Roof rats love high spaces like attics, while Norway rats stick closer to basements or ground-level areas.