Professional Mice & Rat Control & Removal Services in Hagerstown, MD
Expert Rat Extermination for Residential & Commercial Properties
When you discover rats in your Hagerstown home or business, immediate action is essential. A&S Pest Control provides comprehensive rat removal and rodent control services throughout Hagerstown, MD and surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians use proven methods to eliminate rat infestations and prevent future invasions.
Rats pose serious health risks and can cause extensive property damage. They chew through electrical wiring, damage insulation, contaminate food supplies, and spread dangerous diseases. The CDC has identified nearly a dozen diseases directly transmitted by rats, making professional rat control a critical health and safety measure.
Rats are more than just a nuisance — they can cause structural damage, chew through wiring, contaminate food, and spread disease. When you spot droppings, gnaw marks, or hear scratching in your walls, it's time to act. At A&S Pest Control, we specialize in comprehensive rat and rodent control solutions tailored to your property.
From locating entry points and sealing them off to strategically trapping and removing pests, our trained technicians work quickly, safely, and effectively. Let us protect your home or business — and restore your peace of mind.
The Dangers of Rat Infestations in Maryland Homes
Rat and mice control is critical for homeowners in Hagerstown, Frederick, and throughout Maryland. These rodents are known carriers of serious diseases, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) linking rats to nearly a dozen illnesses that can affect humans. When rats gain access to your home or business, they don't just create unsanitary conditions—they actively spread pathogens through their droppings, urine, and saliva.
Mice and rats can be extremely persistent once they establish a foothold in your property. Their ability to squeeze through openings as small as a quarter means that even well-maintained homes are vulnerable to rodent invasion. Once inside, these pests contaminate food sources, damage property, and multiply rapidly—a single pair of rats can produce dozens of offspring in just one year.
Property Damage Caused by Rats and Mice
The structural damage rats cause to Maryland properties can be extensive and costly. Professional rat extermination isn't just about eliminating pests—it's about protecting your investment. Here's what rats can do to your home or business:
- Insulation destruction: Rats and mice tear apart insulation for nesting material, reducing your home's energy efficiency and increasing heating and cooling costs.
- Structural compromise: These rodents chew through floor joists, wall studs, and support beams, potentially weakening your building's structural integrity.
- Fire hazards: One of the most dangerous risks is rats chewing on electrical cables and wiring, which can lead to electrical fires and short circuits throughout your property.
- Foundation damage: Through their persistent burrowing activity, rats can undermine hillsides, retaining walls, foundations, and other similar structures, leading to erosion and potential collapse.
Outdoor Rat Problems and Risks to Children and Pets
Many homeowners in Washington County don't realize that rats living in yards and outdoor areas pose significant health risks, especially to children and pets who play outside. Outdoor rat populations can contaminate soil, water sources, and outdoor play equipment with disease-carrying waste. Pet food left outside, bird feeders, and accessible garbage cans create ideal conditions for rat colonies to thrive near your home.
Even if rats haven't entered your home yet, an outdoor infestation should be addressed immediately. These rodents are constantly searching for shelter, and it's only a matter of time before they find a way inside. Early intervention through professional rat control services can prevent a minor outdoor problem from becoming a full-scale indoor infestation.
Professional Rat Control Solutions in Hagerstown
At A&S Pest Control, we provide comprehensive rat extermination services that go beyond simple trapping. Our qualified technicians combine local expertise with industry-leading methods to deliver long-term solutions to your rodent problems. We don't just eliminate the rats you can see—we identify entry points, implement exclusion strategies, and create customized treatment plans that prevent future infestations.
Our rat control approach includes thorough inspections of your property to locate nesting areas, entry points, and signs of rodent activity. We then implement targeted treatments using safe, effective methods that protect your family and pets while eliminating the rat population. The most effective way to get rid of rats is often through the strategic use of professional-grade rodenticides. We maintain a comprehensive selection of EPA-approved rodenticides that are safe for use in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Same-Day Rat Inspection and Year-Round Protection
When you discover rats in your Hagerstown home, waiting isn't an option. That's why A&S Pest Control offers rapid response rat inspection services—often the same day you call, and frequently within hours. Our emergency rat removal services ensure that your rodent problem is addressed quickly before it escalates into a major infestation.
Beyond immediate rat removal, we offer ongoing maintenance programs that provide guaranteed protection from rodents throughout the year. Our regular inspection and prevention services ensure that your home remains rat-free in every season. With our comprehensive approach to rodent control, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your property is protected by experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges of rat control in Maryland.
Don't let rats damage your property or threaten your family's health. Contact A&S Pest Control today for a free rat and mice inspection. Our veteran-owned, family-operated company has over 20 years of experience protecting homes and businesses throughout Hagerstown, Frederick, and surrounding areas in Maryland and Pennsylvania.
Signs You Have a Rat Problem in Your Hagerstown Property
Recognizing the early warning signs of rat activity can save you thousands in property damage and protect your family's health:
-
Rat Droppings - Small, dark, pellet-shaped droppings near food storage areas, in cabinets, or along walls indicate active rat presence. Fresh droppings appear moist and dark.
-
Gnaw Marks & Chewed Materials - Rats have continuously growing teeth and must gnaw constantly. Look for chewed wires, damaged insulation, gnawed wood, and holes in food packaging.
-
Scratching & Scurrying Sounds - Nocturnal rats create noise in walls, attics, ceilings, and crawl spaces, particularly at night. These sounds often indicate rats traveling between nesting areas and food sources.
-
Grease Marks & Rub Marks - Rats following the same pathways leave oily marks along walls, baseboards, and beams from their fur.
-
Nesting Materials - Shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or plant matter collected in hidden areas signals active nesting sites.
-
Burrows & Entry Points - Outdoor burrows near foundations, damaged vents, gaps around utility lines, and holes in walls provide access to your property.
-
Unusual Pet Behavior - Dogs and cats may become fixated on walls, cabinets, or specific areas where they detect rat activity.
If you've noticed any of these signs, contact A&S Pest Control immediately for a free rat inspection.
Why Choose A&S Pest Control for Rat Removal in Hagerstown?
-
Family-Owned & Veteran-Operated - With over 20 years of experience serving Maryland communities, we understand the unique rat control challenges facing Hagerstown properties.
-
Same-Day Service Available - We respond quickly to rat emergencies, often arriving within hours of your call to start the elimination process.
-
Comprehensive Treatment Plans - Our rat control service includes thorough inspection, strategic trapping, rodenticide application, entry point sealing, and ongoing monitoring.
-
Guaranteed Protection - Our year-round maintenance programs ensure your property remains rat-free with regular inspections and preventive measures.
Common Rat Species in Hagerstown, MD
Norway Rats (Brown Rats)
Norway rats are the most common rat species in Hagerstown. These large, brown rodents prefer ground-level nesting in basements, crawl spaces, and burrows. They're excellent swimmers and often enter properties through sewer lines and damaged pipes.
Roof Rats (Black Rats)
Roof rats are skilled climbers that nest in upper areas like attics, rafters, and trees. Smaller than Norway rats, they enter through roof vents, chimneys, and gaps in soffits.
Both species reproduce rapidly, with females producing up to 12 litters annually, making professional intervention essential for complete elimination.
Our Comprehensive Rat Control Process
At A&S Pest Control, we've refined our rat removal approach over 20 years serving Hagerstown and surrounding Maryland communities. Our comprehensive process ensures complete elimination and long-term protection.
Our certified technicians conduct detailed inspections of your entire property, including:
-
Interior spaces (attics, basements, crawl spaces, walls)
-
Exterior perimeter and foundation
-
Roof and upper access points
-
Landscape features and outbuildings
-
Identification of entry points, nesting sites, and travel routes
Our licensed technicians conduct detailed inspections of your entire property, including attics, basements, crawl spaces, and exterior perimeter. We identify active rat populations, locate entry points, assess damage, and determine the infestation severity. This crucial step allows us to create a customized treatment plan specific to your property's needs.
-
Based on inspection findings, we develop tailored rat control strategies utilizing:
-
Strategic Trapping - Placement of professional-grade snap traps and live traps in high-activity areas for immediate reduction.
-
Targeted Rodenticides - Safe, EPA-approved baiting systems positioned in secure, tamper-resistant stations away from children and pets.
-
Multiple Treatment Methods - Combination approaches for severe infestations ensuring complete elimination.
We implement targeted treatment methods combining professional-grade traps and EPA-approved rodenticides placed in tamper-resistant bait stations. Our technicians strategically position these tools in high-activity areas identified during inspection, ensuring maximum effectiveness while maintaining safety for your family and pets.
-
Permanent rat control requires sealing access points:
-
Steel wool and copper mesh in gaps and holes
-
Foundation crack repair with industrial-grade sealants
-
Vent screen replacement and reinforcement
-
Door sweep and weatherstripping installation
-
Pipe and utility line gap sealing
The key to permanent rat control is preventing re-entry. We seal all access points using durable materials like steel wool, copper mesh, and industrial-grade sealants. Common exclusion work includes foundation crack repair, vent screen replacement, gap sealing around utility penetrations, and door sweep installation. This critical step is what separates temporary fixes from lasting solutions.
-
We provide guidance on:
-
Safe removal of contaminated materials
-
Proper disposal of affected insulation
-
Disinfection of affected areas
-
Food storage improvements
-
Waste management best practices
Rat control isn't a one-time service. We schedule follow-up visits to monitor trap activity, replenish bait stations, remove captured rats, and verify the effectiveness of our exclusion work. Our maintenance programs provide ongoing protection with regular inspections throughout the year.
-
Our maintenance programs include:
-
Regular property inspections
-
Trap and station monitoring
-
Early detection of new activity
-
Seasonal exclusion reinforcement
-
Documentation and reporting
Once your rat problem is eliminated, we provide customized recommendations to keep your property rat-free. Our technicians offer practical advice on food storage, waste management, landscaping maintenance, and structural improvements that reduce future attractants. We also educate property owners on early warning signs to watch for, ensuring you can contact us immediately if new activity appears. This proactive approach, combined with our optional year-round maintenance plans, gives you lasting peace of mind and protects your investment from recurring infestations.
-
Rat Prevention Tips for Hagerstown Property Owners
Protect your investment with these expert rat prevention strategies:
Eliminate Food Sources
-
Store pantry items in sealed metal or glass containers
-
Clean up pet food immediately after feeding
-
Secure garbage in rodent-proof containers
-
Remove fallen fruit and bird seed from yards
-
Keep compost bins properly sealed
Remove Water Access
-
Repair leaky pipes and faucets promptly
-
Eliminate standing water around property
-
Fix drainage issues creating puddles
-
Remove pet water bowls overnight
-
Clear clogged gutters and downspouts
Reduce Shelter Opportunities
-
Trim tree branches away from rooflines
-
Clear dense vegetation from foundation perimeter
-
Remove debris piles, woodpiles, and clutter
-
Store firewood elevated and away from structures
-
Maintain organized storage areas
Regular Property Maintenance
-
Schedule annual professional inspections
-
Repair damaged screens and vents immediately
-
Seal cracks in foundations and walls
-
Replace worn weatherstripping
-
Install door sweeps on all exterior doors
🐀 Frequently Asked Questions - Rat and Mice Control Services in Hagerstown
Our expert technicians will:
-
Conduct a thorough inspection: Identify signs of infestation and potential entry points.
-
Implement targeted treatments: Use safe and effective methods to eliminate rats.
-
Seal entry points: Block access to prevent future invasions.
-
Provide ongoing monitoring: Ensure the infestation is fully eradicated.
We utilize safe and effective methods tailored to your specific needs.
-
Common indicators include:
-
Droppings: Rat droppings are typically the first indicator homeowners and business owners notice. Fresh rat droppings appear dark, moist, and shiny, while older droppings become dry, gray, and crumbly. Norway rat droppings are capsule-shaped, about 3/4 inch long with blunt ends. Roof rat droppings are smaller, more pointed, and curved—about 1/2 inch long.
-
Where to look for rat droppings:
-
Along walls and baseboards where rats travel
-
Inside cabinets and pantries near food sources
-
Behind appliances like stoves and refrigerators
-
In attics, basements, and crawl spaces
-
Under sinks and around plumbing areas
-
In storage rooms and warehouses
-
Near dumpsters and loading docks (commercial properties)
-
-
-
Gnaw marks: Rats must constantly gnaw to keep their continuously growing incisors manageable. These gnaw marks provide clear evidence of rat activity and reveal potential fire hazards and structural damage.
-
Scratching noises: Rats are primarily active at night, and their nocturnal movements create distinctive sounds that alert property occupants to their presence.
-
Nesting materials: Rats build nests in hidden, secluded areas using shredded materials they gather from their surroundings. Discovering nesting materials or actual nests confirms rats are breeding on your property.
-
Footprints or tail marks: Visible in dusty or muddy areas.
Recognizing the early warning signs of rat activity can save Hagerstown property owners thousands of dollars in damage and protect families, employees, and customers from serious health risks. Rats are nocturnal and secretive, but they leave distinct evidence of their presence. Whether you manage a home or business in Washington County, knowing what to look for helps you act quickly before a minor problem becomes a major infestation.
If you've identified any of these warning signs in your Hagerstown home or business, contact A&S Pest Control immediately for a free inspection. Early detection and professional intervention prevent extensive property damage, protect health and safety, and eliminate rats before populations explode. Our experienced technicians respond quickly—often the same day—to assess your situation and implement effective rat control solutions tailored to your property's specific needs.
Don't wait until you see live rats to take action. The signs above indicate active infestations requiring immediate professional attention. Call A&S Pest Control today to schedule your free rat inspection and protect your Hagerstown property.
-
Rats can infiltrate through:
-
Small openings: Gaps as small as a quarter around doors, windows, or foundations.
-
Utility lines: Spaces around pipes, vents, or electrical conduits.
-
Damaged structures: Cracks or holes in walls, floors, or ceilings.
-
Climbing access: Roof rats can enter through attics or chimneys.
Regular inspections and sealing potential entry points are essential preventive measures.
-
Rats are drawn to:
-
Food sources: Accessible pet food, bird seed, compost, or garbage.
-
Water sources: Leaky faucets, standing water, or pet bowls.
-
Shelter: Cluttered areas, overgrown vegetation, or piles of debris.
-
Nesting materials: Shredded paper, cardboard, or insulation.
Eliminating these attractants can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infestation.
-
While DIY methods like traps and repellents can help with minor issues, professional intervention is often necessary for significant infestations. Rats reproduce rapidly and can cause extensive damage. A comprehensive approach, including inspection, treatment, and exclusion, is essential for effective control.
To keep rats at bay:
-
Seal cracks and gaps: Use materials like steel wool or caulk around doors, windows, and foundations.
-
Maintain cleanliness: Regularly clean food storage areas and dispose of garbage promptly.
-
Eliminate water sources: Fix leaks and remove standing water.
-
Reduce shelter: Keep yards tidy, trim vegetation, and remove debris.
-
Regular inspections: Schedule periodic checks to detect early signs of infestations.
Proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infestations.
-
The cost of rat or mice control varies depending on the size of the infestation, property type, and treatment method required. A&S Pest Control provides transparent, competitive pricing and custom solutions tailored to each home or business in Maryland.
Our licensed and experienced technicians perform thorough inspections to identify entry points, nesting areas, and signs of infestation. They then implement safe, effective treatments using proven methods, such as traps, baits, and exclusion techniques.
Choosing A&S Pest Control means you’re working with a team that:
-
Understands the habits of rats and mice in Maryland homes
-
Prioritizes safety for your family, pets, and property
-
Offers follow-up visits to ensure complete elimination and long-term prevention
-
Provides guidance on proactive measures to reduce future infestations
With A&S Pest Control, you get peace of mind knowing that experienced professionals are handling the problem from inspection through prevention.
-
In addition to comprehensive rat and rodent control, A&S Pest Control provides a full range of pest management services for Hagerstown homes and businesses. Our experienced technicians also specialize in mouse control and elimination, general wildlife removal, termite inspections and treatments, ant extermination, cockroach control, bed bug heat treatments, spider removal, wasp, bee and hornet nest removal, mosquito control, tick treatments, flea control, stink bug prevention, and customized preventive pest maintenance programs.
Many of our rat control customers also benefit from our integrated pest management approach, which addresses multiple pest concerns simultaneously. Whether you're dealing with rodents, insects, or other unwanted pests, our family-owned team has over 20 years of experience protecting Maryland properties. We offer bundled service packages that provide comprehensive year-round protection at competitive rates, ensuring your property remains pest-free in every season.
A&S Pest Control proudly serves residential and commercial properties throughout Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Funkstown, Smithsburg, Williamsport, Clear Spring, Hancock, Sharpsburg, Keedysville, and surrounding Washington County and Frederick County communities. Our local expertise means we understand the specific rat control challenges facing Maryland property owners and respond quickly—often providing same-day service.
Contact A&S Pest Control for Expert Rat Removal
Don't let rats damage your property or endanger your health. Contact A&S Pest Control today for professional rat removal services in Hagerstown, MD.
Call Now for Your Free Rat Inspection
Family Owned & Operated | Over 20 Years Experience | Veteran Owned
Our experienced technicians are ready to protect your home or business with safe, effective, and guaranteed rat control solutions. We service Hagerstown and surrounding Maryland communities with same-day availability.
Schedule your free estimate and discover how affordable professional rat control can be. Let A&S Pest Control restore your peace of mind with comprehensive rodent elimination and prevention services tailored to your property's unique needs.
What's Bugging You?
Not sure what kind of pest you’re seeing around your home? Browse our pest gallery below to spot the culprit. From ants and roaches to rodents and termites, we handle them all — safely, quickly, and effectively.
Ants
Bed Bugs
Bees/Wasps
Beetles
Centipedes/ Millipedes
Cockroaches
Fleas
Flies
Rats/Mice
Snakes
Spiders
Spring Tales/ Silver Fish
Stink Bugs
Termite Inspections
Ticks
REQUEST A
FREE ESTIMATE
Get a free estimate today and see how easy and affordable it really is to protect your home or business against pests this year!
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED
OVER 20 YRS EXPERIENCE AND VETERAN OWNED