DENVER — Residents in the Mile High City have more than just altitude to contend with: according to pest control company Orkin, Denver is the 10th most rat-infested city in the country.
That’s according to the number of new rodent treatments performed by the company from Sept. 15, 2017 to Sept. 15, 2018, according to the report, which was first released in October.
For what it’s worth, Orkin said rat activity increases during the winter months, since the rodents are seeking shelter from the elements and readily-available food and water.
Last year, Denver was the 11th most rat-infested city, meaning that it’s moved up a spot.
Chicago was the rattiest city, followed by Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C. and San Francisco – which was the only other city west of the Mississippi to crack the top 10.
To avoid rat problems in your own home, Orkin said to seal entry points, trim overgrown branches, and to avoid leaving food just sitting out. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention said rats and mice spread over 35 diseases – and can also cause structural damage that could be detrimental.
But what do you do if you’re a renter? You don’t necessarily have control over the conditions that could lead to a rat problem.
In Colorado, a landlord does have an obligation to make sure that the complex is livable – and this includes exterminating household pests.
Tenants can take matters into their own hands, and according to Colorado law, submit a bill to the landlord for the repairs or deduct them from rent payments.
The Denver Department of Public Health and the Environment recommends that anyone with rodent or health-related complaints report them by calling 311.
Complaints can also be submitted to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
