Rats aren’t just unpleasant—they’re a serious issue. If you’ve started hearing scratching in the ceiling at night, spotted droppings in hidden corners, or noticed chew marks on food packaging, chances are you’re dealing with more than just a passing visitor. A rat problem, left unchecked, can escalate fast.
In Perth, this is becoming more common than most homeowners realise. As urban development continues and food waste increases, rats are finding more ways into our homes. Let’s walk through how to identify, handle, and prevent a growing infestation—with expert tips on when to call in a professional for rodent control in Perth.
Why Rats Are a Serious Issue in Perth Homes
Perth’s climate offers a comfortable environment for rodents to thrive, particularly in the cooler months when they look for warm shelter. Rats can enter homes through roof spaces, gaps around pipes, and cracks in the foundation. Once inside, they find nesting spots in roof cavities, behind appliances, in garages, or beneath the floorboards.
The real danger lies in what they do once they’re inside. They chew on wires, insulation, furniture, and even pipes. Not only does this lead to expensive repairs—it can be a serious fire hazard. Plus, rats can spread harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses through their droppings, urine, and fur.
That’s why acting early is essential. The longer you wait, the more time they have to breed, multiply, and cause damage.
How to Spot the Early Signs of a Rat Infestation
Not all rat infestations are obvious at first. Sometimes, the signs are subtle—especially in the early stages. Here’s what to watch out for:
· Noises at night – Rats are nocturnal, so you’ll likely hear scratching or movement in the roof or walls after dark.
· Droppings – Small, dark pellets usually found in drawers, pantries, or behind furniture.
· Gnaw marks – Rats have strong teeth and will chew through wood, plastic, cardboard, and even cables.
· Nests – Often built from shredded paper, fabric, or insulation. Usually hidden away in attics or behind wall cavities.
· Grease marks – Rats leave greasy smudges along skirting boards and entry points.
· Unusual pet behavior – If your cat or dog is sniffing a specific spot more than usual, they might sense rodents.
If you spot one or more of these, don’t wait. An inspection by a professional rat exterminator in Perth can save you a lot of time and stress down the line
Why DIY Rat Control Isn’t Enough
It’s tempting to tackle a rat problem on your own. You might set traps or grab a few baits from the local hardware store. While this might catch a couple of rats, it rarely addresses the full issue—especially if there’s a nest hidden out of sight.
Rats are smart, cautious creatures. They’ll often avoid traps, and they breed fast. So even if you catch one or two, you’re likely just scratching the surface. Worse still, DIY poisons can be dangerous for children, pets, and even native animals if not used correctly.
Professional rats pest control in Perth goes beyond surface-level solutions. A licensed technician can:
· Identify all nesting and entry points.
· Tailor a treatment plan specific to your property.
· Use baiting and trapping methods that are safe and effective.
· Provide ongoing monitoring and prevention tips.
What Does Professional Rodent Control Involve?
If you’ve decided it’s time to call in the experts, here’s what to expect during a typical rodent control service:
1. Full Property Inspection
A technician will assess your home or business, inside and out. They’ll check for entry points, droppings, nesting material, food sources, and other signs of activity.
2. Customised Treatment Plan
No two infestations are exactly the same. Based on the inspection, a tailored solution is created, using tamper-proof bait stations, traps, and sealing recommendations to prevent future access.
3. Safe Application
All bait and traps are placed in areas that are safe for pets and children, yet highly effective for removing rats.
4. Monitoring and Follow-Up
In most cases, a follow-up visit is recommended to ensure the treatment worked and to address any lingering concerns.
5. Advice on Prevention
You’ll be given practical advice on reducing attractants—like securing food, sealing bins, and keeping your garden free of clutter.
How to Prevent a Rat Problem Before It Starts
An infestation can usually be avoided with a few simple habits. Prevention is always easier than removal—here’s how to make your home less inviting to rodents:
· Seal all potential entry points – This includes gaps around doors, vents, windows, and pipes.
· Keep food stored securely – Use airtight containers, clean up crumbs, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
· Dispose of waste properly – Rats are scavengers, and overflowing bins are a major attractant.
· Tidy outdoor areas – Piles of wood, garden waste, and compost can be used for nesting.
· Fix leaks and dripping taps – Rodents are always looking for a water source.
If you’re keeping up with these habits and still notice signs of activity, it’s time to bring in a professional Rodent Exterminator.
Rodent Control Solutions for Perth Businesses
If you’re running a business—especially one in food service, retail, or warehousing—a rodent issue can escalate from inconvenient to disastrous very quickly. One sighting from a customer or inspector can hurt your reputation or even result in fines.
We strongly recommend setting up a pest management plan for ongoing protection. Regular inspections and preventative treatments ensure your business remains compliant and rodent-free year-round.
Whether you’re managing a café, restaurant, warehouse, or office, your best defense is a reliable, professional approach to pest control
It’s worth searching pest control near you the moment you suspect activity. Early action means less damage, less risk, and a quicker resolution.
Rats are more than just an inconvenience—they’re a health hazard and a threat to your home’s safety. Left unchecked, they’ll continue to breed, spread disease, and cause structural damage. What starts as a few strange sounds at night can quickly grow into something far worse.
If you’re dealing with a rodent problem or simply want peace of mind, your best move is to call in the professionals. For thorough, reliable, and affordable rodent control in perth, trust the team at Rats Pest Control Perth. Give us a call today on (08) 6275 6560 to book your inspection and say goodbye to rats for good.