Rats or mice are one possibility, especially when movement is more noticeable at night, but sound alone does not confirm the cause. I look for supporting signs such as droppings, gnawing, nesting material, travel routes and possible access areas before deciding on the next step.

Access is not always obvious from ground level. Depending on the property, activity may involve rooflines, service penetrations, subfloor areas, gaps around building elements or vegetation. Branches touching or overhanging the roof can also create a route towards the building.

DIY can be reasonable for limited activity when you know what you are dealing with and can use products safely. Consider professional help when activity continues, bait disappears but the problem returns, rodents enter living areas, or you cannot work out where they are travelling from.