Australian home problem guide

🐭 Rats or mice

Rodent control usually requires identifying access points, food sources and nesting areas as well as trapping or baiting.

General guidance, not an inspection or diagnosis. Repair advice has not been independently reviewed by a tradesperson. About this checker and safety sources.

What to do now

First step

Keep children and pets away from droppings and any baits. Avoid sweeping dry droppings into the air.

Common causes

  • Roof or subfloor entry points
  • Food / waste access
  • Vegetation or structures bridging to roof
  • Seasonal movement into the building

The exact cause cannot be confirmed from a symptom alone. The first professional should inspect before repair work is authorised.

What usually happens next

  1. Inspect evidence and entry points
  2. Control active rodents
  3. Seal access points where appropriate
  4. Remove food / harbourage sources

What should I ask about the price?

Ask for an itemised quote covering the inspection or call-out fee, labour, materials, GST, access, disposal and any after-hours charge. Ask what happens if extra damage is found. A reliable price needs details of the actual job; this guide does not provide an estimate.

Who may be responsible?

Owner / landlord

Responsibility in rentals can depend on the cause, property condition and tenancy rules in the relevant state.

Tenancy, strata, insurance and boundary responsibilities vary by circumstance and state, so confirm responsibility before non-emergency work where practical.

Questions to ask before hiring

  • Are you appropriately licensed or registered for this work in my state?
  • Does the quote include call-out, labour, parts/materials, GST and disposal?
  • What is excluded from the quoted scope?
  • If you find additional damage, will you get approval before doing extra work?
  • What workmanship or product warranty applies?
Want a tailored first step?

Run this problem through the checker, then contact a suitable professional of your choice.

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