Rats are an extremely common pest that can cause significant issues for homes. The most common species is the brown rat, also known as the Norway rat.
Brown rats are highly adaptable and thrive in both urban and rural environments. They often live close to people and nest in:
- gardens,
- sheds,
- attics, and
- wall cavities.
Rats are known for damaging property, contaminating food and posing serious health risks by carrying and spreading diseases.
Identifying rats and signs of infestation
Rats are much larger than mice. Adult brown rats can measure up to 40cm from nose to tail. They have a blunt snout, small ears, a thick tail shorter than the body and coarse brown-grey fur. It is not always easy to spot the rats, but you may see signs, such as:
- Droppings
Dark, cylinder shaped and 1 to 2cm in length, resembling a sultana. They can often be found in concentrated areas along rat runways or near food sources. - Gnawing damage
Found on wood, plastic, wires, furniture and food packaging. - Tracks
Rats may leave footprints across dusty surfaces, such as on top of a kitchen cupboard or across a garage floor. Due to rats oily fur, they may leave a greasy trail along skirting boards. - Scratching noises
Hearing scratching sounds from inside walls, ceilings or beneath floorboards. This may be more noticeable at night. - Nests
Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation is a sign of a rat using the material to build a nest somewhere quiet and hidden.
Why rats are problematic
- Rats can carry a range of harmful diseases, including Weil's Disease and Salmonellosis.
- Rats can cause damage to electrical wires, furniture, wooden structures and roofs, which can lead to structural damage.
- Rats breed extremely fast. This can lead to large infestations if the problem is not resolved quickly.
What attracts rats?
Rats are opportunistic and will take advantage of any environment that provides easy access to food, water and shelter. They are attracted to:
- Unsealed rubbish bins
Overflowing or poorly sealed bins. - Bird feeders and food spillage
Excess birdseed, especially left on the ground. - Compost heaps
Especially if they include food scraps or are not properly contained. - Pet food
Left outside or in a shed in open bags or bowls. Outdoor pets, such as guinea pigs, may attract rats via food in hutches and storage. - Standing water
Leaking hoses, dripping taps, clogged gutters, or trays under flowerpots. - Gardens
Tall grass, woodpiles, and unused items provide hiding spots and shelter. Fruit and vegetable patches can also become easy food sources. - Drains
Damaged drainage systems, such as breaks in pipes, can give them easy access from drainage systems to gardens and properties. - Gaps in brickwork
Defective vents or damaged brickwork can allow access to wall cavities.
Getting rid of a dead rat
If you find a dead rat on your property, it is important to dispose of it safely:
- Wear gloves - do not touch the rat with bare hands.
- Use a shovel or disposable tools to pick it up.
- Double-bag the body in strong plastic bags and tie securely.
- Place in your general waste - do not put the bag in your garden waste or recycling.
- Disinfect the area where the rat was found using a suitable detergent.
- Wash hands thoroughly after removing gloves.
Book an appointment
Book a pest control appointment
Before your appointment
Before the technician arrives, please take steps to prepare your home for treatment:
- Clean and declutter
Allow access to skirting boards, attic hatches, and behind appliances. - Store food securely
Remove food from floors and counters, seal food containers and store them in a secure place. - Secure pets and pet food
Remove pet food from the floor, seal pet food containers and restrict pet access during treatment. - Report signs of activity
Make a note of any sightings, droppings, gnawing or noises.
Treatment will include baiting and identifying entry points for future proofing.
Make sure you follow any aftercare advice provided by the technician.
Cancelling an appointment
You must give 24 hours' notice to cancel an appointment. If the notice is not given, this will count as 1 appointment from your treatment plan.
Rats in public places
If you have seen a rat in a public place, such as in the street or in a park, you can report this to us.
Report a rat in a public place
