We have all heard the term “roof rat” but what are they really and how did they come to be? I have always thought these were an Arizona myth until I saw one scampering across my backyard one night.

Roof rats first appeared in Arizona back in 2002 and are still a major problem today. There are a few species of rats known, varying in size (13-18in from head to tail) and color (brown, gray, black). They prefer to nest in high places such as trees and attics, but will burrow under plants, buildings, basements and even sewers.

A ½” hole in a house is just enough for a roof rat to climb into, turning your home into a new breeding place. They are best known for getting into the structure of the house, eating through electrical wires, and causing other destructive damage within the house. They also have been known to ruin citrus crops. Although these can lead to extensive repair bills, the worst is when they die in your house and start to decay, leaving a “lovely” smell throughout your ventilation system.

This can all be prevented by calling Qualtire Plumbing & Construction to come out and secure all holes and make sure the rats won’t be getting into the house as well as going into the attic and checking for existing rats. Other actions can be beneficial as well such as keeping your yard well kept, picking up excess fruit, and disposing garbage properly. You want to make sure you do not use D-Con to kill the rats because that could potentially kill your pets or other animals as well.

Always remember that Qualtire Plumbing & Construction has been your Phoenix plumber and remodeler since 1964, and we are always just a phone call away.

In the eyes of a Plumber’s son

~Andrew Ryne~