🐀 Rodent Control in Broward County, FL

Roof rats (Rattus rattus) are Broward County's primary rodent pest — agile, climbing rodents that are fundamentally different from the burrowing Norway rats common in northern cities. Roof rats access homes from above, entering through gaps in soffits, around pipe penetrations, through unscreened vents, and via fruit tree branches that overhang rooflines. Broward County's abundant fruit trees — citrus, mango, avocado, and lychee — are a major food source and highway for roof rat activity. South Florida's year-round warmth means roof rats breed continuously with no seasonal die-off.

Roof rats pose several serious risks to Broward County homeowners. They gnaw through electrical wiring (a documented fire hazard), as well as through PVC plumbing, insulation, and structural wood. A breeding pair can produce 40-70 offspring per year in South Florida's favorable conditions. Roof rats also contaminate food storage areas and attic insulation with urine and droppings. The first sign of roof rat activity is typically scratching or rolling sounds in the attic or ceiling voids at night, when roof rats are most active.

How We Treat Rodent Problems in Broward County

• Snap traps and tamper-resistant bait stations — placed along established run pathways in attic; non-toxic snap traps used inside living spaces; exterior bait stations secured against children and non-target animals
• Roofline and soffit inspection — comprehensive inspection of all upper-story entry points; roof rats enter from above, not from the ground
• Exclusion — sealing every entry point — hardware cloth, metal flashing, and expanding foam used to permanently close all gaps; the only lasting solution
• Fruit tree trimming consultation — branches contacting or overhanging the structure must be trimmed back; rat guards installed on tree trunks if needed