Pest Guides

Searching for Solutions to Noises in the Roof

Protect Your Home and Family from unwanted Pests in your Roof

Scurrying and scratching noises in your roof not only cause distress and anxiety to some people but are also a very strong indication that rodents or other wildlife have taken up residence there. Roof spaces are the perfect environment for rodents and other wildlife because of the dry and warm conditions they provide.

Image of House Mouse (Mus domesticus) | Rentokil Pest Control Australia

Any noise should be investigated as soon as possible because the nests and droppings of these pests become ideal breeding sites for many species of insects as a secondary infestation.

Just as importantly is the damage rodents and other pests can do to your home – and to anything stored in your roof - not to mention the possible fire hazard associated with their constant gnawing of wood or electric cabling.

The first step is to inspect your roof and look for visible signs of rodents or other wildlife, the most common of which is droppings. The age of the droppings indicates whether the infestation is currently active or not.

Fresh droppings are ‘shiny’ whereas older droppings are dry and dull. Older droppings may indicate an old or seasonal infestation which should still be prevented from re-occurring.

Identifying Pests Droppings

  • Mouse Droppings - Thin and spindle shaped with a pointed end and less than ¼ inch long.
  • Brown Rat Droppings - Blunt spindle shaped averaging between ¼ and ½ inch.
  • Black Rat Droppings - Pointed sausage shape average length ½ to ¾ inch.
  • Bat Droppings - Dark brown or black and about ¼ inch long. They look very similar to mouse droppings but bat droppings crumble into a fine powder when crushed whereas fresh mouse droppings are softer. Bat droppings are also found on walls.

What to do about Animals in the Roof

Although many homeowners struggle with do it yourself pest control remedies the results are often less than satisfactory. Small problems can develop into large ones and this is when many people seek out the services of a pest control professional.

Image of Black Rat (Rattus rattus) | Rentokil Pest Control Australia

Rentokil technicians are skilled, experienced professionals – they are state certified, licensed applicators and are required to participate in regular training programs to maintain their expertise. They understand the habits of each species and use that knowledge when developing a control program for your home. They also have respect for you, your home, your family and your time.

At Rentokil Pest Control, we pride ourselves on fast, responsive service every day.

If you would like further advice or to arrange a visit by a Rentokil Technician, call us on 1300 805 087 or click here to contact your local branch.