Dealing with a Rat Problem at Your Newly Built Home

Dealing with a rat problem in your newly built home can be both surprising and frustrating. You might assume that because your house is newly constructed, rodents would steer clear. 

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Rats, mice, and other rodents are experts at finding ways into even the most meticulously constructed homes. 

In 2022, it was reported that rats were “seemingly” taking over cities in the US. The situation with rats, post-COVID, had worsened in many parts of the country. Cities in New York, Florida, and California, in particular, saw these rat problems worsen by the day. Fast forward to last year, and reports of such rodent-related problems continued to pour in from across the country. 

Now, if you're facing a rat infestation, that too in your newly-built home, it's crucial to address it swiftly and effectively. Here’s how.

Seal Entry Points to Prevent a Rodent Infestation

Newly built homes often have small gaps, cracks, and openings that can serve as entry points for rodents. Even the tiniest of openings, no larger than a quarter of an inch, can provide a pathway for rats to invade your space. As a matter of fact, such tiny holes pave the way for easy access to your homes for rodents.

Unlike traditional insulation, steel wool is a deterrent for rodents because they cannot chew through it. Caulk and metal flashing can be used to seal large gaps or openings, particularly around utility lines and vents. 

Eliminate Sources of Food and Water to Deter Rodents

Rats and mice are attracted to areas where food and water are readily available. To minimize the risk of a rodent problem, it’s essential to remove any potential sources of nourishment for these pests. 

In a newly built home, construction debris or remnants from the building can sometimes attract rodents. Make sure that all construction materials, food waste, and garbage are cleared away promptly.

Inside your home, store food in airtight containers, clean up spills immediately, and ensure that pet food is not left out overnight. Also, make sure you have trash bins with secure lids. Otherwise, rodents will find their way to these bins and infest them. That’s why NYC is mandating trash bins with secure leads for homes to keep rats away. 

Why are rats attracted to trash?

Rats are drawn to trash because it provides them with a reliable source of food and shelter. The discarded food scraps in the trash offer easy nutrition, while piles of waste create ideal hiding spots for nesting and protection from predators.

Use Traps Strategically to Control a Rat Infestation

If you’ve already noticed signs of a rat problem, like droppings or strange noises at night, it’s time to take more direct action. Traps are an effective way to control a rodent infestation, but placement is key. 

Rats and mice tend to travel along walls and baseboards, so placing traps in these areas can increase your chances of catching them.

Consult a Professional for Persistent Rodent Problems

If your efforts to address the rat problem are not yielding results, it may be time to call in a professional. 

As we mentioned earlier, Florida is one of the many US places struggling with rat problems. Orlando, in particular, is a city that’s having a tough time dealing with these rodents. Hence, to get rid of rats, Orlando locals almost always turn to professional rat removal service providers. 

According to Proteck Wildlife Solutions, these rat removal services take every precaution to remove rats in a humane way. They will perform a thorough inspection of your home and use advanced techniques to remove the rodents. Also, a professional can provide guidance on how to prevent future infestations.

Does having a cat help deal with rodent infestation?

Yes, having a cat can help reduce rodent infestations. Cats are natural predators of rodents, and their presence alone can deter rats and mice. However, while cats may catch some rodents, they might not eliminate an infestation entirely.

Why does Orlando have such a chaotic rat problem?

Florida, with its warm climate and high population density, becomes an ideal place for rats to thrive. Orlando is known to be one of the worst cities when it comes to rat infestation. The city even had an incident in 2023, where a rat was spotted at Orlando International Airport’s Frontier Airlines terminal. Roof rats are common here as they can easily find food, shelter, and warmth in the densely populated areas of the city.

Dealing with a rat problem in your newly built home can be a challenging experience. However, with the right approach, it is possible to overcome this rodent crisis. Taking swift action will protect your home and also ensure that you can enjoy your new space without the worry of unwanted rodent guests.

Related Article:

• How To Solve Pest Problems: A Comprehensive Guide
• Property Damage and 3 Other Risks of Having Rodents in Your Home