Rodent pest rontrol, rodent inspections and rat trapping

Rats cause damage in homes in Las Vegas and there are several types risks associated with them. Here’s a breakdown of what to watch out for.

What kinds of rats are common Las Vegas?

• Roof rats — smaller, nimble, good climbers. Common in Las Vegas, especially near areas with trees, heavy vegetation, and standing water.

• Norway rats — larger, more ground-based, burrowers. Less frequently seen in some parts of the Valley but they are present.

Here are some of the specific kinds of damage rats can do to homes in Las Vegas:

• Structural damage & gnawing

• Rats chew on wood, drywall, insulation, plumbing and even roofing materials, especially roof rats that access attics.

• They can burrow or nest in walls, under slabs, or under porches or concrete pads. This can weaken structural elements or degrade materials.

• Damage to wiring, plumbing, ducts

• One local report said a rat chewed through a large electrical conduit.

• Chewing can lead to exposed wires, which are fire hazards, or cause problems with plumbing or HVAC systems if rats chew protective sleeves or insulation.

• Insulation damage

• Rats often nest in insulation (attics, walls), which degrades its effectiveness. Pulled apart insulation doesn’t properly insulate, can lead to energy loss, hot/cold spots, moisture issues.

• Contamination & health hazards

• Droppings, urine, hair can contaminate surfaces, food, air.

Risk of disease transmission: salmonella, leptospirosis, rat‐bite fever, etc.

• Also odor and mold issues, especially in hidden spaces where moisture builds up.

• Damage to possessions

• Paper, fabrics, stored goods can be shredded or soiled. Stored items in garages, attics are vulnerable.

• Exterior damage

• Burrowing around foundations, under slabs or concrete pads (air conditioner pads, for example) can shift stuff, cause weakening or settling damage. Roof rats may enter via roofing, tree limbs touching structures.

• Cost and resale issues

• If damage is visible or discovered during inspection/appraisal, it can reduce home value. Repairing damage (wiring, structure, insulation) can be expensive.

• Migration in cooler weather

• As temperatures drop in Las Vegas, rats tend to move indoors seeking warmth, leading to more damage inside homes.

Typical repair costs locally for the kinds of damage rats cause around Las Vegas can be costly — Calling a pest control company for a rodent inspection at the first sign of rodents, rodent droppings, or noise in your walls or attic is critical to help avoid costly repairs. Call 702-586-5179.