The short version
Pest control for rodents usually means traps or bait stations, often on a recurring service plan. It reduces the population. Rodent exclusion means sealing the house so rodents can’t get in. It stops new ones arriving. Most attic rat problems need both: remove what’s inside, then seal.
Side by side
| Exclusion | Typical pest-control plan | |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Keep rodents out | Reduce rodents present |
| Method | Seal vents, gaps, roof returns, doors | Traps and bait stations |
| How often | Mostly one-time, plus follow-ups | Often monthly or quarterly |
| Pricing | Per job, by openings and access | Per visit or service plan |
| Warranty | Often on the sealing work | Usually tied to the plan |
When monthly bait stations make sense
Exterior bait stations can help where rodent pressure from outside is constant, such as homes next to open fields or orchards. They don’t close the gaps on the house itself, and bait inside an attic can leave a dead rodent where you can’t reach it.
Does one rat mean an infestation?
Not always, but it’s worth checking. See signs of rats in the attic.
What each costs
National guides list rat removal at about $189–$655 and sealing entry points at about $200–$600 (HomeAdvisor, 2026). Full exclusion plans with exclusion doors and a month or more of visits run about $600–$1,400 (HomeGuide). See the cost guide for sources.
Next step
If you want the house sealed, start at rodent proofing in Brentwood. If rats are active now, start with rat removal.