Rats tend to chew on wires due to both instinct and practical need. The incisors of rats, squirrels and mice grow constantly, which means these animals have to constantly chew or gnaw in order to keep their teeth filed down enough so that they can eat. Unfortunately, they seem to favor the insulation around your electrical wires, which becomes a prime target for these pests. During summer months, rats will migrate from your attic to the cooler areas under your home. These dark and secluded spaces under houses offer a safe haven for rats to thrive, making them even more likely to target your exposed electrical wiring. Chewed wires are a leading cause of house fires, and is one of the first things our technicians look for during inspections for rodent activity.