To get rid of rats in your roof, you need lockable rodent bait stations placed securely in the roof void and subfloor, combined with exclusion work to block entry points. At Priority Pest Services, we eliminate roof rats quickly and safely.
- Roof rats enter homes through broken tiles, weepholes, and overhanging branches
- Lockable bait stations cost from $180 and include 4 stations
- Scratching noises typically stop within 7 to 10 days of treatment
Why are rats scratching in my roof at night?
If you hear scratching, scurrying, or chewing sounds above your ceiling at night, you almost certainly have a rodent problem. Roof rats (also known as black rats) are excellent climbers. As the weather cools down in Sydney, they seek out warm, dry places to build their nests. The insulation in your roof void provides the perfect material.
Our proven method for rat eradication
Tossing hardware store baits into your manhole is dangerous and often ineffective. We use a professional rodent control strategy that ensures the rats consume the bait safely.
- Property inspection: We identify how the rats are entering your home (tree branches, broken tiles, weepholes).
- Install bait stations: We place lockable, tamper-proof bait stations in the roof void and subfloor.
- Secure the bait: The bait is secured on metal rods inside the station so rats cannot drag it away.
- Exclusion advice: We provide a report on what needs to be sealed to prevent future infestations.
"Never throw loose bait into your roof. Rats will drag it into your living spaces where pets or children can find it."
Will the rats die and smell in my roof?
This is the most common concern. Professional rodent baits are designed to make the rats thirsty. After consuming the bait, they typically leave the building in search of a water source and die outside. While there is a small chance a rat may die in the roof, the risk is significantly lower than using cheap hardware store baits.
| Control Method | Safety Risk | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Loose pellets | High (can be dragged out) | Low |
| Snap traps | Medium | Medium (requires checking) |
| Lockable Bait Stations | Low (tamper-proof) | High |
Key tips to keep rats out of your roof
- Trim tree branches away from your roofline - rats use them as bridges.
- Repair broken roof tiles and seal gaps around eaves.
- Block weepholes with mesh vents, not solid fillers.
- Store firewood away from the exterior walls of your home.
Hearing scratching in your roof?
Priority Pest Services installs lockable, tamper-proof bait stations from $180. Most roof rat problems are resolved within 7 to 10 days. Call us or request a free quote online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rodent control cost?
A standard rodent treatment for a Sydney home costs $180. This includes the installation of 4 lockable bait stations.
Is rat bait safe for my dog?
Yes, because we use lockable bait stations. Your dog cannot open the station, and the bait is secured inside so the rat cannot drag it out into the yard.
How long does it take for the rats to die?
You will typically stop hearing scratching noises in your roof within 7 to 10 days of the bait stations being installed.
Do you remove the dead rats?
In the rare event a rat dies in an accessible part of your roof void and causes an odour, we offer a dead animal removal service for an additional fee.
Can rats chew through electrical wires?
Yes. Rats must constantly gnaw to keep their teeth filed down. Chewed electrical wires in roof voids are a major cause of house fires in Sydney.