It sounds like the kind of story that gets forwarded on WhatsApp. But rats coming into homes through drains is real — and in Indian cities, with open drains and ageing pipes, it's more common than most people think.
How rats manage it
- They swim well — and can hold their breath for a few minutes.
- They climb vertical pipes — gripping the pipe walls to move upward.
- They squeeze through small gaps — around 2 cm is enough.
Sewer and drain lines are a network of dark, sheltered tunnels. For a rat, following one up into a building is natural.
The usual routes in
- Floor drains in bathrooms, balconies and utility areas — the most common.
- Uncovered drain outlets and gaps around pipes.
- Broken or cracked pipes in older buildings.
- The toilet — rarer, but possible, especially on lower floors.
Blocking the route
- Fit sturdy metal grates on every floor drain — plastic ones get chewed.
- Cover open outlets and seal gaps around pipes.
- Keep the toilet lid closed, especially at night.
- Repair broken pipes — and raise building-wide problems with the society.
- Make the area unwelcoming — a deterrent in the bathroom or utility area.
Once the drains are covered, the EchoRepel Ultrasonic Rat Repellent helps keep utility areas and bathrooms uncomfortable for rats. Keep it dry and away from direct water. For sealing the rest of the home, see how to rat-proof your house.