Scratching in the roof at night? Rats and mice in winter

If you hear scratching or scurrying above the ceiling after dark, there's a good chance rodents have moved into your roof. In Sydney, roof rats (also called black rats) and house mice are the usual culprits, and they become more noticeable in the cooler months when they look for warm, dry shelter close to food.

Signs you have rats or mice

• Scratching, gnawing or running noises in the ceiling or walls, mostly at night.
• Droppings in the roof void, cupboards, the pantry or behind appliances.
• Gnawed food packaging, wiring, timber or plastic.
• Greasy rub marks along walls, beams or entry points.
• A stale, musty smell in enclosed spaces.
• Pets suddenly interested in a wall, cupboard or ceiling.

Why you shouldn't ignore them

Rodents contaminate food and surfaces with droppings and urine, and they can carry diseases. They also chew constantly. Gnawed electrical wiring in a roof space is a genuine fire risk, and they can damage insulation, ducting and stored belongings.

How to keep them out

• Seal gaps around pipes, cables, vents, eaves and roof tiles. Mice can squeeze through gaps about the width of a pencil.
• Trim tree branches and vines that touch the roof or gutters.
• Store food, pet food and birdseed in sealed containers.
• Don't leave pet food out overnight.
• Keep compost in a sealed bin and clean up fallen fruit.
• Reduce clutter in the garage, shed and roof space where rodents can nest.

Getting rid of an existing problem

Once rodents are inside, a single trap or a box of bait from the supermarket rarely fixes it. A professional treatment finds where they're getting in, places tamper-resistant baits or traps safely away from children and pets, and recommends which entry points to seal so they don't come back.

Want a professional to take a look? Call CITY WIDE on 1300 888 749 or request a free quote below. We look after homes and businesses across Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, Inner City and North West.