Roof rats are the rodent pest that University of Florida IFAS calls the worst in Florida. They climb palms, shrubs and trees to reach roofs, nest in attics and roof spaces, and gnaw wiring and rafters. Sealing entry points and trimming the planting that touches the roof usually does more than bait alone.
Key takeaways
- University of Florida IFAS describes the roof rat as Florida's worst rodent pest.
- Roof rats use palms, shrubs and trees to reach roofs, then nest in attics and roof spaces.
- Norway rats are rare in Florida, so most rodent calls in the state involve roof rats.
- Gnawed wiring and rafters are a fire and damage risk, which makes an early visit worthwhile.
- Sealing entry points and trimming planting that touches the roof are the most lasting steps.
Why is the roof rat Florida's main rodent problem?
University of Florida IFAS calls the roof rat the worst rodent pest in Florida. It climbs well, uses the canopy and roof lines, and nests in the upper parts of buildings, while the Norway rat, which lives at ground level, is rare in the state.
The roof rat's habits explain why it is the state's main rodent pest. It is an agile climber that moves along branches, fences and utility lines, and it uses the high spaces of a building that a homeowner rarely looks at.
Because the Norway rat is rare in Florida, the rodent work in a typical Broward home is aimed at roof rats. That is also why the first visit usually starts at the top of the house rather than at the ground.
Where do roof rats live in a Broward yard?
Roof rats nest in attics, roof spaces, palms and dense shrubs. They use the planting as a highway to the roof and as cover to feed, and they return to the same nest sites over time.
Palms with dead fronds, dense hedges and trees that touch the roof give roof rats cover and food. Fallen fruit and seed on the ground draw them down to feed, and the nest is often higher up in the planting or the roof.
A technician checks the planting that touches the house, the roof edge and the attic access points. The owner is told which trimming and clean-up can be done before the visit.
How do you find the entry points and seal them?
Entry points are usually at the roof line: where the roof meets the wall, at the eaves and soffits, around vents and along pipes and wires. Sealing those gaps is more lasting than relying on bait alone, because a sealed house gives rats no way in.
Signs to look for include droppings, gnaw marks on wood and wiring, greasy rub marks along a run, and scratching or movement in the attic at night. A technician uses those signs to decide where to look and what to seal.
Sealing is usually done with materials that rats cannot gnaw through. Work on the roof itself is a job for a roofer or a contractor, and the technician will say when that is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Are roof rats a fire risk?
They can be. Roof rats gnaw wiring and rafters, and damaged wiring can create a hazard. If you suspect gnawed wiring, turn off the affected circuit if it is safe and have an electrician look at it.
Will baiting alone solve a roof rat problem?
Baiting can reduce the rats, but sealing the entry points and trimming the planting is what keeps them from returning. A technician will recommend both where they are needed.
What should I do if I hear rats in the attic at night?
Call (855) 974-4733. Describe the sounds and any signs you have seen, and a technician will arrange a visit to check the roof line and the attic.
Sources
This guide is general information for Broward County homeowners, not a substitute for an on-site inspection. Prices are estimates. See our disclaimer.