As the temperature drops across Perth during the winter months, an unsettling problem tends to rise—roof rat activity. These agile rodents are notorious for making their way into homes and businesses, particularly in colder seasons, when food and shelter are harder to come by outdoors.
Understanding why roof rats become more active in winter, how they operate, and what can be done about it is the first step toward keeping a home safe and healthy. With Rats Pest Control Perth, expert help is never far away when it comes to managing unwanted rodent guests.
The Seasonal Shift: Why Winter Drives Rats Indoors
Unlike other rodents that nest underground, roof rats prefer elevated spaces like ceilings, roof voids, and wall cavities. These areas offer warmth and protection from predators and the elements, making homes in Perth especially appealing when the weather cools.
During summer, food is plentiful outside, and rats often stay close to gardens, bins, and stormwater drains. But in winter, when outdoor sources become scarce, roof rats actively seek refuge indoors. This is when they sneak through broken tiles, damaged vents, or gaps in the eaves to set up camp inside homes.
Identifying the Signs of Roof Rat Activity
Noticing rat activity early can save a lot of time, stress, and property damage. Here are some of the most common signs to watch for:
· Scratching or scurrying noises in the ceiling, especially at night
· Droppings—small, dark, and pellet-shaped—often found in cupboards or near food
· Chewed wires, insulation, or plastic packaging
· Greasy rub marks along walls and beams
· Strange, musty odours, particularly in roof spaces or wall cavities
Roof rats are not just noisy visitors—they pose a serious risk to property and health. That’s why rat pest control in Perth is a vital consideration for homeowners, especially in winter.
Health Hazards Linked to Roof Rats
Roof rats are known carriers of bacteria and disease. Their urine and droppings can contaminate food and surfaces, while their presence can attract other pests like fleas and mites.
Some of the health risks linked to roof rat infestations include:
· Leptospirosis
· Salmonella
· Hantavirus
· Rat-bite fever
· Asthma flare-ups due to allergens in rat fur and droppings
Keeping living spaces clean is important, but in the case of rats, it’s not enough. Professional rodent control in Perth is the most effective way to eliminate the problem safely and thoroughly.
How Roof Rats Enter Homes in Perth
Roof rats are good at climbing. They use fences, power lines, or trees to reach your roof. If they find a small gap, like a loose tile or hole, they get inside easily. Common entry points include:
· Gaps in roof tiles or flashing
· Broken air vents or grilles
· Overhanging tree branches
· Cracks in the foundation or around utility pipes
· Unsealed gaps in doors and windows
What makes them even trickier is their nocturnal nature. Most people don’t notice them until the population grows and the signs become more obvious. That’s why winter is the perfect time to book a pest control Perth inspection—before the infestation gets out of hand.
The Damage Roof Rats Leave Behind
Roof rats aren’t just a nuisance—they cause significant structural damage. Their strong teeth can chew through timber, plastic, plasterboard, and even electrical wiring, increasing the risk of fires and costly repairs.
Some of the most common damage caused by roof rats includes:
· Insulation being pulled apart for nesting
· Chewed wires, leading to short circuits and fire hazards
· Water leaks from gnawed pipes
· Contamination of stored food or pantry goods
· Structural weakening of beams or ceiling materials
When signs of damage start appearing, it’s time to consider rats control Perth services to prevent further issues.
Prevention Tips: Keeping Roof Rats Out This Winter
While professional help is the most reliable solution, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of a roof rat infestation:
1. Seal entry points: Inspect the exterior of the home for holes, gaps, and cracks—especially around the roofline.
2. Trim trees and branches: Overhanging vegetation can act as a bridge into the home.
3. Store food securely: Rats can chew through plastic and cardboard—use sealed glass or metal containers.
4. Secure rubbish bins: Ensure lids are tight and bags are disposed of regularly.
5. Reduce outdoor clutter: Piles of wood, compost, or rubbish attract rodents and give them a place to hide.
Even with all precautions in place, roof rats can still find their way inside. When that happens, timely action is key.
The Role of Professional Pest Control
DIY traps and supermarket baits may offer short-term relief, but they rarely address the entire problem. Roof rats breed quickly, and missing just one nesting site can result in a full-blown infestation all over again.
Professional services provide:
· Thorough inspections of entry points and nesting areas
· Safe, family- and pet-friendly treatments
· Advice on prevention and future-proofing the home
· Long-term peace of mind with follow-up care if needed
If dealing with rodent activity during winter, calling for expert rat pest control in Perth is the smartest way to protect both home and health.
Roof rats don’t wait for an invitation—they sneak in quietly and cause damage fast. Winter in Perth creates the perfect conditions for these rodents to invade homes, which is why being proactive is essential. Don’t let your roof become their next home. Whether it’s scratching in the ceiling or chewed-up cords, take signs seriously and act quickly. For safe, reliable, and effective rodent solutions, call Rats Pest Control Perth on (08) 6275 6560 today for fast, professional help. We’re locals, we know Perth’s problem areas, and we’ve helped hundreds of homes and businesses across Wanneroo, Ellenbrook, Morley, Canning Vale, Joondalup, Midland, Baldivis, Rockingham, Armadale, Mandurah, and Clarkson get back to being rodent-free.