Where it appears
In Toronto properties, pest pressure often follows food, warmth, moisture, storage and access routes. Condos and commercial spaces may also involve shared walls, service rooms or neighbouring activity.
Preliminary identification
Rat
Rat identification should be treated as a preliminary visual estimate until a technician confirms the evidence.
Common signs
Repeated sightings or evidence in the same area
Activity near food, moisture, storage or exterior access
Signs that return after cleaning or temporary fixes
Unclear evidence that needs inspection confirmation
What to do now
- Avoid blocking suspected burrows or exterior openings without a plan because rats can create alternate routes.
- Secure garbage, compost, pet food and cluttered exterior storage so the inspection can focus on active travel paths.
What not to do
Avoid spraying over evidence, sealing active entry points or discarding useful samples before inspection. Those steps can hide the pattern a technician needs to confirm the pest.