California Has a New Rat Problem — Here’s What It Means for Los Angeles Residents

As the owner of los Angeles Termite I've seen pest trends rise and fall over the years — but one issue is becoming increasingly urgent: rats are on the rise across California, and Los Angeles is feeling the pressure.

According to a recent article from Newsweek, California is facing a new rat crisis, fueled by environmental policy changes and urban development. If you’re a homeowner or business owner in the greater Los Angeles area, now is the time to understand what’s happening — and how to protect your property before rats become a serious problem.

What’s Behind California’s Growing Rat Problem?

The surge in rat populations across California isn’t just about urban sprawl or leftover food waste — it’s more complicated than that.

Here are the top reasons cited by experts and now visible in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego:

Bans on Second-Generation Rodenticides

In an effort to reduce harm to wildlife, California restricted the use of “second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides” — potent poisons that were previously the industry standard for rat control. While the intention is environmentally sound, the unintended consequence is less-effective rodent control in densely populated areas.

Urban Growth and Construction

New development disrupts rats’ underground habitats, forcing them to migrate into neighborhoods, apartment buildings, and commercial areas. Construction in LA has skyrocketed, pushing rats into homes, garages, and businesses in search of food and shelter.

Increase in Organic Waste

California’s recent organic waste recycling regulations require residents and businesses to sort food waste separately. Unfortunately, unsecured green bins and compost piles have become rat buffets, especially in warm cities like Los Angeles.

Why Los Angeles Is at Higher Risk

Los Angeles is uniquely vulnerable to rat infestations due to several factors:

• Warm climate allows year-round breeding

• High population density and frequent restaurant trash

• Aging infrastructure provides rats with easy entry points

• Outdoor dining culture increases food availability

You may not see them during the day, but rats are nocturnal, agile, and fast breeders. A single pair can produce hundreds of offspring in just one year. Left unchecked, even a small issue can turn into a major infestation.

How LosAngelesTermite.com Helps Fight Back

At los Angeles Termite we’re more than just termite experts — we’re fully licensed and experienced in rodent control and prevention. Our approach to rat problems is effective, safe, environmentally responsible, and designed specifically for Southern California conditions.

Here’s how we help homeowners and businesses in LA tackle the rat problem head-on:

Free Rodent Inspections

We offer no-cost, no-obligation inspections to assess your risk. Our specialists look for:

• Entry points (cracks, vents, roof gaps)

• Droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting materials

• Food sources and environmental attractants

Catching rat activity early is key to preventing long-term damage.

Humane & Legal Removal Methods

Because of California’s rodenticide restrictions, we focus on safe, compliant solutions:

• Sealing off entry points

• Setting mechanical traps

• Installing tamper-proof bait stations (where legal)

• Removing nesting zones and food attractants

We use methods that are safe for children, pets, and local wildlife — and that actually work.

Sanitation & Decontamination

Rats don’t just damage property — they pose serious health risks. Their urine and droppings can carry dangerous bacteria and viruses. We provide:

• Safe cleanup and waste removal

• Deodorizing and disinfecting services

• Recommendations to prevent re-infestation

Ongoing Monitoring & Prevention Plans

Our job isn’t done after removal. We offer monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly service plans to ensure rats don’t return. We’ll check traps, refresh bait, and reinspect your property to keep you rat-free year-round.

Don't Wait Until It’s Too Late

The Newsweek report makes it clear: California’s rat problem is growing, and the current laws, though well-intentioned, mean it’s more important than ever to hire experienced professionals who understand the changing landscape of pest control in this state.

If you’ve noticed scratching sounds at night, droppings in the garage, or rats around your trash bins — don’t wait. Even if you haven’t seen signs yet, a proactive inspection can save you thousands in future damage.

Book Your Free Rodent Inspection Today

At los Angeles Termite we’re proud to help LA residents fight back against the rise in rodent activity. Our team is fast, discreet, and highly trained in modern, humane rodent control methods that work — without violating state law or endangering your family.