Rat Control and Removal in Portland
Rats are strong, cautious and persistent. Getting rid of them takes a plan: find the entry, trap, exclude and clean.
Roof rats and Norway rats both live in the Portland area. Norway rats burrow along foundations, under decks and in crawlspaces. Roof rats climb, and prefer attics, soffits and trees that touch the roofline. Which one you have changes where we look and what we use.
Fall is the busiest season. As the weather turns, rats move indoors in search of warmth and stable food, and sounds in the attic or walls at night are often the first sign.
Why traps alone fail
Rats are wary of new objects and learn quickly. A few traps without a plan may catch one or two, but others keep coming if the entry point remains open. On a first visit we typically find the route in before we set a single trap.
Trapping and sealing
We use trap placement matched to the species and the location, with regular checks. At the same time we seal gaps with rodent-proof materials: metal flashing, mesh and sealant, rather than foam or caulk alone, which rats chew through.
Cleanup and restoration
Rat droppings, urine trails and nesting material contaminate insulation and surfaces. Where it is needed we remove contaminated material, sanitize the area and replace insulation, so odors and attractants do not bring new rats in.
What to watch for
Roofline entry
Roof rats enter through vents, soffits and gaps where tree branches or wires meet the house.
Foundation burrows
Norway rats dig along slabs, under decks and next to compost or chicken feed.
Food sources
Bird feeders, pet food, fruit trees and unsecured trash all feed a colony.
What happens on a visit
- Inspect the roofline, foundation, attic and crawlspace
- Identify the species and where they travel
- Trap and seal entry points
- Recommend cleanup and monitoring
Read next: Mice, Mice & Rats, Attic Restoration.
Rats questions
Ready to get rid of them?
Send us a request. We aim to reply within 15 minutes during regular business hours, or we take $20 off your service.