The Health Inspector for the City of Rochester published a comprehensive guide to help residents and property owners combat potential rat infestations. The guide provides step-by-step instructions for identifying and controlling rat populations and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in tackling this issue.

While reported complaints have been minimal, and often linked to neighbors keeping chickens, the City of Rochester is working to prevent a widespread rat problem. By educating the public on how to deter rats, the City aims to stay ahead of potential infestations.

If you have rats, or rats were found on your property, this guide is for you.

How to Use the Guide:

1. Follow the steps outlined to find and control rats, or hire a reputable pest control company to do so.
2. Share this guide with neighbors, tenants, or landlords, as rats are a community problem.

Inspection Process:

Consider hiring a licensed pest control professional if you identify any of the following conditions on your property:

• Live rats
• Rat droppings
• Burrows (rat nests)
• Gnaw marks from rats’ teeth
• Tracks or runways, such as rub marks or flattened paths outside burrows
• Excessive garbage or clutter that provides hiding places for rats

Steps to Control Rats:

Step One: Look for Evidence

• Check for rat droppings, gnaw marks on garbage cans, and burrows (holes in dirt or concrete).
• Look for dark greasy track marks along walls and worn paths in grass, indicating rat runways.
• Inspect the area at night with a flashlight to see where rats are active.

Step Two: Clean Up

• Sweep up droppings and clean track marks with a mild bleach solution.
• Remove clutter such as newspapers, paper bags, cardboard, and bottles.
• Control weeds, shrubs, and bushes to eliminate potential rat burrows.

Step Three: Starve Them

• Manage garbage by using hard plastic or metal cans with tight-fitting lids and bringing them to the curb close to pick-up time.
• Store food in tightly sealed containers and avoid feeding stray animals.

Step Four: Shut Them Out

• Seal all holes and cracks in foundations, walls, floors, and around doors and windows using appropriate materials such as caulk, mortar, or metal screening.
• Install metal door sweeps and thresholds to prevent rats from entering through gaps.

Step Five: Wipe Them Out

• Use rodent baiting as a last resort, and ensure it is done by professionals. Follow all safety guidelines and legal requirements for bait placement.

Choosing and Working with a Pest Control Company:

• Select a company that provides thorough inspections, written reports, and action plans based on inspection findings.
• Ensure they use tamper-resistant bait containers and employ qualified exterminators.
• Work closely with the pest control professional to monitor progress and ensure effective eradication of rats.

Myths and Facts About Rats:

1. Myth: Rats the size of cats live in NH.
   Fact: Most rats weigh no more than one pound.
2. Myth: “Rat cities” are in our sewers and drain systems.
   Fact: Most rats live in burrows at the ground or basement level.
3. Myth: Rats are “immune” to poison.
   Fact: Today’s poisons work if rats eat them.
4. Myth: More than one kind of rat lives in NH.
   Fact: Only the Norway rat is found here, though it may be known by various names.
5. Myth: Cats, dogs, hawks, and other animals help control city rats.
   Fact: Only people can effectively control rat populations due to their rapid breeding rates.

For more information and to access the full guide, visit www.rochesternh.gov/building-licensing-services. To learn more about the proper ways to compost, click here.