Hey everyone!
I’ve been battling rats in my basement for weeks. At first, I tried DIY methods, snap traps, peppermint oil, and sealing cracks with steel wool—but the rats keep coming back. Last night, I found chewed-up wiring and a nest behind the dryer. Now I’m wondering: When is it time to call in the pros?
Background: My house is near a wooded area, and rats are sneaking in through gaps in the foundation. I’m worried about fire hazards from gnawed wires and diseases like hantavirus. The infestation seems beyond my control, but I’m hesitant about the cost of professional services.
Discussion Points:
- What are the signs of a severe rat infestation that demand professional help?
- Are there risks to relying solely on DIY methods for large colonies?
- How do professional exterminators handle nests in hard-to-reach areas (e.g., walls, attics)?
- What’s the average cost of professional rat control, and is it worth it?
Any advice would ease my stress!
Call a pro if you see multiple nests or daytime activity. Rats are nocturnal, if they’re bold, the population is huge. Pros use thermal cameras to find hidden colonies.
Do they charge extra for inspecting walls? My basement has drywall I can’t remove.
@HomeSafe2024 Most include inspection in the initial fee. They drill small holes to scope behind walls and reseal them afterward.
Stick with DIY if it’s just 1-2 rats! I cleared my shed with bucket traps and metal screens. Save $$$ unless it’s an emergency.
How do I know if it’s an emergency?
@HomeSafe2024 If you find chewed wires, greasy rub marks, or hear constant scratching, call a pro ASAP. Fire risks aren’t worth the gamble!
Pros are a must if you have kids or pets. They use tamper-proof bait stations and exclusion techniques DIYers can’t replicate.
I paid $300 for a pro to seal my home and set traps. Cheaper than rewiring the house after a fire!
Try owl boxes first! Barn owls eat 1,000+ rats a year. Eco-friendly and free long-term.
Avoid poisons yourself! My neighbor’s dog ate a poisoned rat and died. Pros know safe bait placement.
Historic homes need pros. They found rat highways in my chimney flue, DIY would’ve missed them.
The average cost is 200−600 depending on infestation size. Ask for warranties, many retreat for free if rats return.
Pros cleared my garage in 2 days. They used tracking powder to find entry points I’d never spot.
Some companies offer eco-friendly options (e.g., carbon monoxide instead of poison). Worth asking!