How Rats Enter Your Home: Common Entry Points Around Perth Properties
If you’ve ever wondered how rats find their way into homes, the answer is simple: they’re clever, flexible, and relentless. Whether it’s a small crack in the wall or an open garage door, rats will exploit any opportunity to enter a warm, food-rich environment. At Rats Pest Control Perth, one of the most common questions we’re asked is: “How did they even get in?” In this blog, we’ll break down the most common rat entry points—and how to secure them.
Why Rats Are So Good at Getting In
Rats can:
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Squeeze through holes as small as 1.5 cm
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Climb walls, trees, and pipes with ease
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Chew through wood, plastic, and even metal
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Swim up through plumbing systems
These skills make them surprisingly hard to keep out—unless you know what to look for.
Top 5 Common Entry Points for Rats
1. Roof Gaps and Broken Tiles
In Perth, roof voids are among the most common nesting areas for rats. Gaps in roofing tiles, broken vents, and open eaves give them easy access to warmth and shelter. They often enter from overhanging tree branches or drainpipes connected to gutters.
2. Gaps Around Pipes and Air Vents
Wherever a pipe enters your home—from the kitchen to the bathroom—there’s a potential rat entry point. The same goes for air vents and weep holes, especially if they’re not screened.
3. Under Doors and Garage Gaps
If there’s a gap under your front or garage door, even just 2 cm high, it could be an open invitation. Rats often scurry inside unnoticed at night, especially if food or rubbish is left near entryways.
4. Unsealed Wall Cracks and Foundations
Cracks in walls, flooring, or foundations can allow rats to burrow into wall cavities or beneath your home. This is especially common in older buildings where materials may have shifted or degraded.
5. Pet Doors and Open Windows
Left open for convenience, pet flaps and unscreened windows can become quick and easy access points for rodents—especially during cooler months when they’re searching for warmth.
How to Stop Rats from Entering
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Seal all holes larger than 1 cm with steel wool, caulk, or wire mesh
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Install door sweeps on all external doors
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Cover vents and weep holes with rodent-proof mesh
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Trim back tree branches hanging over your roof
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Check roof tiles and eaves for gaps or damage
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Store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs or pet food
These simple steps can drastically reduce the chance of rats invading your space.
Trust the Experts in rodent control Perth
Even with prevention in place, rats can still find creative ways in. That’s why a full property inspection from experienced technicians is the best line of defence. At Rats Pest Control Perth, we don’t just eliminate rats—we find their entry points and block them off for good.
Think rats have found their way into your home?
Contact Rats Pest Control Perth today for a detailed inspection and lasting rodent control Perth solutions you can count on.
