Rats in Garage, Estimate $900!

[Naga A.]

I own a SFR out of state. My property manager has contacted me that a tenant complains that numerous rats and a lot of rats poops have been seen at garage.

The estimate for taking care of such problem came back with $900, which includes an assessment by sealing entire home and a 2 year warranty.

What is the best and reasonable solution to this rat issue?

I can check the lease to see whether a landlord or tenant is responsible, but the tenant has asked to be let out of the lease if this issue is not taken care of. I do not want to lose her.

And, my house is Atlanta, and recommendation/referral for an exterminator would be appreciated.

[Ibrahim Hughes]

I had this issue recently. I spent $30 on some pure pepper oil, rags, rubber bands sealant and strips of wood. I sealed up the garage with the wood strips (went across the bottom of the garage doors where there were gaps) and sealant AFTER I ran them out by tying the rags around rocks and dousing them with pure peppermint oil. I then threw the rocks in different parts of the garage. The rats cleared out immediately as they can't take the smell. Have the PM use a handy man to do the same for a couple of hundred bucks (including labor). He can then go around the house with the remaining foam-like sealant and seal up all the holes.