Rats are one of the worst pest problems to have in Northern Virginia. They are disease carrying rodents that leave dangerous droppings behind them. Droppings that can be more dangerous than their bite.There is also a strong, undesirable odor associated with an infestation. Typical indications of a rat problem are noises being heard at night and scratching in the  attic. They will destroy your home by leaving small droppings and digging tunnels in insulation and other materials. Your attic is  what they are looking for in terms of shelter and nesting materials. Allowing rats to stay in your attic will result in expensive repairs and a lot of clean up.  We have knowledge and experience that will work to help you get your home back from these pests. 

 

Dangers of Rats in your Attic

Handling rat problems on your own is not a good idea for several reasons.  They can carry external parasites such as fleas, flies, maggots, ticks, and mites. Viruses, such as Hepatitis E, are not uncommon. While most homeowners will not come in contact with them in their attic you will hear and smell them.  Contamination can put your health and the health of your family and pets at risk. They can also cause major damages in your attic.  Droppings and urine can saturate drywall and ruin insulation. The worst problem, however, is chewing.  Rats, mice and other rodents have teeth that never stop growing so they gnaw on whatever is available. If wires are left exposed you are at risk of having a house fire. There are so many reasons to call professionals for help. Your family’s safety should be at the top of that list. Call us today.

 

Rats In The Attic, Walls 

 If you see one rat in your attic, more than likely, it is not alone.  Just like mice and other rodents, rats breed very quickly and they need to be removed from your attic before you have an infestation.  An average litter is 6-12, gestation is 22-24 days and new young reach reproductive maturity at about 3 months. This means your problem can get out of control rapidly and the expense only gets bigger along with the infestation. Make no mistake, these critters can and will create serious damage to your home if allowed to stay.  They will leave an odor in your home that will need professional deodorization and the droppings and urine will need to be cleaned up and sanitized to remove the risk of disease. Insulation, wood and drywall in your attic can all be damaged. You need to have them removed as soon as you are aware of them. 

Dead Animal Removal Truck

Rat Extermination 

Our team is made up of experts in Rat Extermination. We will start by setting traps to capture those that are in your home. We understand the behavior of these animals and know the best traps and where to place them. There are many DIY options out there, but you shouldn’t put yourself or home at risk. These rodents are covered in fleas that are full of terrible diseases that can be life threatening.  Let us help you with an extermination and exclusion plan.

Rat Damage Repair 

Once the rats are removed and all entry points have been sealed we will safely clean up the damage. Droppings, dead bodies, contaminated insulation and drywall  left behind by rats can be hazardous to you and your family. We are prepared to handle any situation.  Attics can be small spaces with poor ventilation so proper gear must be used to disinfect the area. We will sanitize the area and repair the damage that they may have caused.  Call Jesse James Critter Gitters today!