Chicago has long been ranked among the “rattiest cities” in the U.S., and if you’ve ever dealt with rodents in your home or business, you already know how true that is. From historic brownstones in Lincoln Park to busy restaurants in the Loop, rat infestations are a recurring challenge across the city. The combination of dense neighborhoods, older buildings, and long winters makes Chicago the perfect breeding ground for rodents.
If you’re searching for a professional rat exterminator in Chicago, choosing the right company can feel overwhelming. The truth is, not every pest control provider has the experience or tools needed for effective, long-lasting rat removal. Asking the right questions before you hire ensures that your investment actually protects your property—and your peace of mind.
Here are seven questions every Chicago home or business owner should ask when hiring a rat exterminator in 2025.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Illinois?
A professional exterminator should always carry a valid Illinois pest control license and proper insurance coverage. Licensing proves they’re trained in safe and legal removal methods, while insurance protects you if something goes wrong on your property.
Pro tip: Ask for their license number and confirm it online. If a company can’t provide proof, that’s a red flag.
2. How Much Experience Do You Have With Chicago’s Rat Problems?
Rats in Chicago behave differently than in smaller towns—they take advantage of alleys, sewers, and aging infrastructure. That means rodent control here requires city-specific expertise. Ask how long they’ve been handling infestations in your neighborhood and what unique challenges they’ve faced.
An exterminator who knows Chicago’s architecture and seasonal rodent patterns will be better equipped to solve the problem at its source.
3. What Methods Do You Use for Rat Removal?
Not all removal methods are created equal. Some exterminators rely solely on poisons, while others combine trapping, sealing entry points, and ongoing monitoring.
Look for a provider that uses a customized plan rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. If you have pets or children, ask about eco-friendly or humane options to keep everyone safe.
4. Do You Offer a Guarantee on Your Services?
Rats are persistent, and infestations often require follow-up visits. That’s why it’s important to ask about service guarantees. A reputable company will back their work with a clear promise—whether that’s a 30-day or 90-day guarantee—so you won’t be left unprotected if rodents return.
5. How Do You Prevent Future Infestations?
Killing or trapping rats is only half the job. True rodent control in Chicago means identifying how they’re getting in and keeping them out for good. Ask what preventive measures they include, such as sealing foundation cracks, repairing vents, or setting up routine inspections for businesses.
Pro tip: Request a written prevention plan that outlines long-term solutions.
6. What Will the Costs Be?
Rat extermination costs in Chicago can vary based on the type of property, severity of infestation, and methods used. Always ask for a detailed, written estimate that includes both treatment and follow-up visits.
Be cautious of companies offering unusually low quotes—often, you’ll end up paying more in the long run when the problem isn’t fully solved.
7. How Quickly Can You Start?
Rats multiply fast, so quick action is critical. The best rat exterminators in Chicago offer same-day or next-day service to contain infestations before they spiral out of control.
When interviewing providers, ask about their response times and availability for emergency calls.
Why Acting Now Matters
Ignoring a rat problem in Chicago can lead to major consequences—chewed wires, contaminated food, structural damage, and serious health risks. The longer you wait, the harder (and more expensive) the infestation is to control. By asking these seven questions, you’ll be prepared to hire an exterminator who delivers safe, effective, and lasting rat removal solutions.
Contact the Experts for Rat Removal in Chicago
Don’t leave your property vulnerable to rodents. If you’re ready for professional, dependable, and humane rodent control in Chicago, reach out to the team you can trust. For expert rat extermination and wildlife removal services, contact Chicago’s Green Trappers today.