How To Get Rid Of Rats In Walls And Ceilings?

I'm hearing scratching and scurrying noises coming from inside my walls and ceiling at night — how do I figure out what's in there and how to get rid of it?

Getting rid of rats in walls and ceilings requires a methodical approach that addresses both removal and prevention. Rats can transmit diseases like hantavirus and leptospirosis, so prompt action is important for both homes and businesses.

Step 1: Confirm that it is rats. Look for greasy rub marks near baseboards, droppings in attic insulation or along joists, and chewed wiring or ductwork. These are all telltale signs of rats, not mice.

Step 2: Locate and seal entry points. Inspect the exterior for gaps around vents, roof edges, utility penetrations, and foundation cracks. Seal these openings with rodent-proof materials like hardware cloth or metal flashing, but leave one or two active entry points temporarily open for trapping. Where needed, a trained professional can install licensed materials like Flexi Armour for lasting protection (something commercial facilities often require for audit compliance).

Step 3: Set traps along travel paths. In accessible areas like attics or crawl spaces, place snap traps or multi-catch traps along walls and beams where rats travel. Secure and lightly bait them, then check daily and remove carcasses promptly to prevent odor buildup.

Step 4: Address inaccessible voids carefully. For rats inside wall cavities, avoid using rodenticides; dead rats create lasting odor problems and attract secondary pests like flies and beetles. Instead, professionals can use monitoring devices or create small access ports to strategically place traps.

If the infestation is widespread or the entry points are difficult to locate, trained technicians can conduct a full structural assessment and implement a tailored exclusion and commercial or residential rat removal plan to restore a hygienic, odor-free environment and prevent reinfestation. You can contact us to schedule a Free inspection.