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CausesHigher risk

Why Are Rats in My Roof?

Written by PestMan Editorial TeamTechnical review pendingPublished Updated

Quick answer

Roof voids are warm, dry, quiet and close to food, which makes them ideal nesting sites for roof rats. Rats usually reach the roof by climbing fences, trees, vines, palms or power lines, then enter through gaps under roof sheets, tiles, gutters, ridge capping or around pipes. Fruit trees, bird seed, pet food and compost nearby keep them fed.

Why this happens

The roof rat is an expert climber that prefers to nest off the ground. Insulation provides nesting material.

Activity often increases in autumn and winter when outdoor shelter is less comfortable and food is scarcer.

Vegetation touching or overhanging the roof creates easy access.

What you may be seeing

  • Running, scratching or gnawing noises in the ceiling at night.
  • Droppings in the roof void or cupboards.
  • Greasy rub marks around roof access points.
  • Chewed fruit in the garden.

What you can do

  • Trim branches, vines and palms at least a metre back from the roof.
  • Seal gaps in roof lines with rodent-proof mesh or flashing; a roofer may be needed.
  • Remove food sources: pick up fallen fruit, store bird seed and pet food securely.
  • Place traps in the roof void along runways if safe to access.

What not to do

  • Do not enter roof voids in extreme heat or walk between ceiling joists.
  • Avoid scattering loose bait in roof spaces.
Safety first

Rodenticides must be used exactly as the label directs, in tamper-resistant bait stations where required, and out of reach of children, pets and wildlife. Dead rodents should be removed with gloves. If a child or pet may have eaten bait, call the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) or your vet immediately.

When professional help may be needed

Rats in roofs can damage wiring and insulation. Professional help is sensible if you cannot safely access the roof void, if activity continues after trapping, or if you need entry points found and sealed.

Still having trouble with rats? Talk to a pest professional →

Rats

Introduced rodents that live alongside people, nest in roofs, walls and gardens and gnaw through building materials and wiring. Roof rats are the most common household rat in many Australian cities.

Species mentioned

Roof Rat (Black Rat)

Rattus rattus

An agile climbing rat that nests in roof voids, trees and dense vegetation. The rat most often heard in ceilings in Brisbane and other coastal cities.

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Sources & further reading

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