For many residents of Park-Extension, the sight of rats in back alleys, yards, or near garbage bins is not new. Over the years, the neighbourhood has faced repeated rodent problems, making awareness and prevention especially important for local families and businesses.
Reports of rat infestations in Park-Extension have been documented for years, with residents frequently describing sightings in alleys, backyards, and even during daylight hours. Local officials have confirmed receiving repeated complaints, with residents expressing concerns about safety, property damage, and overall quality of life.
Community reports have also linked rodent activity to overflowing garbage, poorly stored waste, and construction work that disturbs underground habitats, forcing rats to move toward residential areas.
In fact, rodent problems remain among the most persistent concerns raised by residents during neighbourhood meetings, particularly in areas with heavy garbage traffic or aging infrastructure.
Why Rats Appear in Homes and Buildings
According to the City of Montréal, rats often surface when sewer systems or drains are damaged or when excavation work disrupts underground tunnels.
Rodents typically enter buildings through:
Unused openings in plumbing
Broken pipes
Cracks in walls larger than 15 millimetres
Food waste flushed into toilets or garbage disposal units
These entry points are common in older buildings, many of which are found throughout Park-Extension.
Municipal guidance states that when rats appear inside a property, the problem often originates in the sewer line connecting the building to the main collector pipe. Property owners are responsible for hiring certified exterminators and carrying out necessary repairs.
What Tenants and Residents Should Do
In rental housing, tenants who notice rats must notify their landlord immediately. Property owners are legally responsible for addressing infestations and ensuring safe living conditions.
If rats are seen in restaurants, grocery stores, hospitals, or other food-related establishments, the situation should be reported to Montréal’s food inspection division, which oversees sanitation standards in public-serving facilities.
For sightings in parks, alleys, or public spaces, residents are advised to contact the city through the 311 service, which triggers inspections and possible intervention.
A Growing Issue Across Montreal
Park-Extension is not alone in facing rodent challenges. Across Montreal, complaints related to rats have increased in recent years. City records show that more than 1,700 rat-related calls were made to 311 services in 2024, compared with just over 1,000 calls in 2022.
Experts and city officials have pointed to several contributing factors, including construction activity, aging sewer systems, and improper waste disposal practices.
Prevention Starts at Home and on the Street
Local experience has shown that prevention is often the most effective tool against rodent infestations. Securing garbage properly, avoiding food waste in plumbing, and repairing cracks or broken pipes can significantly reduce the chances of attracting rodents.
In a neighbourhood like Park-Extension, where population density is high and buildings are closely packed, even small sanitation issues can quickly become larger problems.
For residents who have lived through repeated rodent waves, the message is clear: vigilance matters. Reporting problems early and maintaining proper waste practices remain essential steps in keeping homes, streets, and businesses safe from one of the neighbourhood’s most persistent urban challenges.
