Scratching Noises in Your New York Home? Here’s What to Do

Hearing scratching noises coming from your walls can be a disturbing experience for homeowners and renters alike. In New York, where homes range from historic buildings to modern apartments, this issue is surprisingly common. The sounds could indicate the presence of various pests, including rodents, birds, insects, or even bats, each requiring different approaches for removal and prevention.

Photo byDalle 3

Identifying the Culprit

The first step in addressing scratching sounds in your walls is to identify what might be causing the noise. Typically, the time of day when the scratching occurs can provide clues. Mice and rats, for example, are nocturnal creatures. If the noises are mostly heard at night, there's a high likelihood you're dealing with rodents. These pests are notorious for making scratching, scurrying, and even chewing noises as they navigate through wall cavities and other hidden spaces in your home​(

Twin Forks Pest Control,Pest Control Experts).

Squirrels, on the other hand, are diurnal and more active during the day. Their presence might be indicated by scratching sounds in the morning or late afternoon. Birds might also cause similar noises if they've managed to nest in vents or under the eaves of your home​(

Batzner Pest Control).

Potential Risks

Rodents such as mice and rats are not just a nuisance; they pose serious risks to your home and health. As they gnaw through drywall, insulation, or even electrical wires, they could cause structural damage or create fire hazards. Additionally, their droppings can carry diseases that threaten both human and pet health​(

Pest Control Experts). Larger animals like raccoons or opossums might also take up residence in your walls, especially if there are food sources nearby or easy entry points like damaged roofing or gaps under doors​(Upgradedhome.com,Brick Underground).

Immediate Actions to Take

If you hear scratching in your walls, it's important to take prompt action. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Listen and Observe: Carefully listen to the sounds to determine their source and frequency. This helps identify the type of pest and the extent of the infestation. Rodents typically create softer, more consistent noises, while larger animals or birds may be louder and more sporadic​(Upgradedhome.com).
2. Inspect Entry Points: Examine your home for potential entry points. This includes looking for cracks in the foundation, gaps in the siding, or openings around doors and windows. Even small holes can be large enough for mice or insects to enter​(Batzner Pest Control).
3. Set Traps and Deterrents: For smaller infestations, setting traps might be effective. Use food-baited traps for rodents but avoid using poisons, as these can lead to pests dying inside your walls, causing odor and potential health risks. If you're dealing with larger animals or are unsure of the pest type, it's best to avoid DIY methods and seek professional help​(Twin Forks Pest Control,Pest Control Experts).
4. Contact Professional Pest Control: If the problem persists or involves larger animals, contact a pest control professional. These experts have the tools and knowledge to safely remove pests and prevent them from returning. They can also identify whether the pests are protected species, such as bats, which require special handling under New York state law​(Batzner Pest Control,Pest Control Experts).

Prevention Strategies

Preventing future infestations is crucial. Regularly inspect and maintain your home to seal potential entry points. This includes using materials like caulk or weatherstripping to close gaps around doors, windows, and vents. Keeping food sources, including pet food and garbage, securely covered can also deter pests from making your home their habitat​(

Upgradedhome.com).

For those living in rental properties, it's generally the landlord's responsibility to address pest issues. New York state law requires landlords to maintain their properties free from infestations, especially when they result from structural deficiencies like holes in the walls or roof. However, tenants should document the issue and communicate clearly with their landlords to ensure the problem is resolved promptly​(

Brick Underground).

Conclusion

Hearing scratching in your walls can be alarming, but by taking the right steps, you can quickly address the issue and prevent future occurrences. Whether it's through DIY methods or professional intervention, maintaining a pest-free home is essential for safety and peace of mind in New York.

For more information or professional help, consider reaching out to local pest control services that specialize in rodent and wildlife removal.