Where Do Rats Live? Common Hiding Spots and How to Keep Them Away

What Types of Rats Are Common in Homes and Businesses?

The two most common rat species that invade properties are:

• Norway Rats (Brown Rats): These rats tend to burrow in the ground and prefer basements, crawl spaces, and sewers. They’re often found on lower levels of buildings.
• Roof Rats (Black Rats): Unlike their burrowing cousins, Roof Rats love heights. They nest in attics, roofs, and trees, using their climbing skills to find food and shelter.

Each type has different nesting habits, but both can spread disease and cause costly damage to your property just like other infestations that require professional solutions, such as Rodent control inspection.

Where Do Rats Live Inside Homes?

Once inside, rats look for warm, hidden spaces where they won’t be disturbed. Here are some of their favorite indoor hiding spots:

• Inside walls and ceilings – Rats squeeze through tiny gaps and use insulation to build nests.
• Basements and crawl spaces – Dark, damp areas offer protection from predators and the elements.
• Kitchens and pantries – Rats hide under appliances and inside cabinets, staying close to food sources.
• Garages and storage spaces – Cluttered areas provide plenty of nesting materials.
• Attics and roofs – Roof rats, in particular, prefer nesting in high places.

Because rats are nocturnal, they stay hidden during the day and become active at night, searching for food.

Where Do Rats Live Outside?

Before moving indoors, rats often establish colonies outside. Some of their most common outdoor hiding spots include:

• Burrows in yards and gardens – Norway rats dig tunnels near homes, sheds, and sidewalks.
• Sewers and storm drains – These provide a steady food supply and protection from predators.
• Wood piles and overgrown vegetation – Rats love dense vegetation and stacked materials for cover.
• Garbage bins and compost piles – These attract rats looking for easy meals.

How Do Rats Get Into Homes and Buildings?

Rats are resourceful and will take advantage of any weak spot around a home or business. Here’s how they usually get inside:

• Through small cracks and gaps – Rats can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter.
• By climbing – Roof rats use trees, power lines, and gutters to access attics.
• Through drains and pipes – Some rats travel through sewer systems and emerge inside buildings.

Once inside, they start nesting and multiplying quickly, making early prevention essential.

Signs That Rats Are Living on Your Property

If you suspect a rat problem, here are some telltale signs to watch for:

• Droppings – Found near food sources, along walls, or inside cabinets.
• Gnaw marks – Rats chew through wood, wires, and even plastic.
• Scratching noises – Especially at night, coming from walls, ceilings, or floors.
• Grease marks – Rats leave dark, greasy smudges along baseboards and entry points.
• Nesting materials – Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation gathered in hidden spots.

Spotting these signs early can help prevent a full-blown infestation.

How to Stop Rats from Living in Your Home or Yard

The best way to deal with rats is to make your home less inviting to them. Here’s what you can do:

• Seal entry points – Use steel wool or caulk to block gaps around pipes, vents, and doors.
• Secure food sources – Store food in airtight containers, keep pet food sealed, and clean up crumbs.
• Eliminate nesting areas – Clear out clutter, trim overgrown vegetation, and store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home.
• Maintain cleanliness – Regular cleaning helps remove attractants like food scraps and crumbs.
• Get professional help – A pest control expert can identify problem areas and stop infestations before they start.