Hire a professional for large rodent infestations

What to Do

Call a licensed pest control professional when trapping has not resolved the problem after 2-3 weeks, when you have evidence of rats (not just mice), when rodents are in wall voids or attics, or when you see signs of electrical wire damage (fire hazard).

Why It Works

Professionals have experience locating entry points that homeowners miss, access to commercial-grade exclusion materials, and expertise in managing complex infestations across multiple areas of a structure. Rat infestations in particular are more challenging than mice due to rats' neophobia and larger foraging range.

Tips

• Professional rodent control visit: $150-400
• Full exclusion service: $400-2,000+ depending on home size and entry points
• Ongoing monitoring: $40-75 per monthly visit
• Ask whether the service includes exclusion or only trapping — trapping without exclusion is temporary
• Request an inspection of the full perimeter and attic/crawlspace, not just the reported problem area