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How to get rid of rats

Safe, immediate steps you can take now, followed by an honest read of when to bring in a licensed, eco-friendly local provider.

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Step-by-step to get rid of rats

  1. Remove outdoor food sources and open trash
  2. Seal entry holes 1/2 inch or larger
  3. Set traps along runways, safely away from pets and kids
  4. Trim trees and clear clutter from the foundation
  5. Call a licensed provider for established populations

Safe DIY methods

  • Seal obvious openings with hardware cloth and caulk
  • Remove food and water sources outdoors and in
  • Keep vegetation and clutter away from the foundation

When to call a licensed provider instead

  • You keep seeing them after repeated DIY attempts.
  • The pest is structural, protected, or a health risk (termites, carpenter ants, wasps, rodents near food).
  • You aren't certain what you're dealing with.

For structural, protected, or health-risk pests, never DIY with wild chemical mixes. See how local exterminators handle rats →

Common questions

How do I get rid of rats in the yard?

Remove food and water, clear debris and brush, and seal burrows after confirming they're empty. For an active population, professional removal is safer and faster.

Is rat poison safe to use myself?

Over-the-counter poison risks harm to pets and wildlife and can leave dead rats in walls. Licensed providers use contained stations and follow-up.

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