Rats

Rats can cause structural damage to properties and can be responsible for starting fires by chewing through wires. When in close proximity to humans they can transmit diseases.

In the UK, the Brown Rat or Norway Rat is the most common species. It is physically strong and can squeeze through a gap of less than 25mm (1 inch). Rats are omnivorous and will eat almost anything edible.

Rats are bigger and heavier than mice. They have short, thick and hairless tales.

How to tell if rats are present

• Rats are more likely to be found outdoors or in buildings such as garages, disused outdoor toilets or sheds.
• If rats enter a house they are likely to be found in the cavity walls, lofts and basements under suspended wooden floors.
• Look out for droppings in the garden, outbuilding, compost heap, pet hutches and bird tables.
• Rat droppings are typically 1 to 2cm long. They are shiny and look like dark brown or black jelly beans, often appearing in clusters.

• Gnawing damage to pipes, containers and wheeled bins etc.
• Smear marks from rat fur are distinctive marks, particularly around doors and holes.
• In some cases rats can gain access to properties via domestic drains.

Preventing rat infestation

• Good building maintenance - make sure all holes of greater diameter than 25mm (1 inch) are blocked or covered to prevent rats entering your home. 
• Remove any outside debris such as old furniture, pipes or piles of rubbish that rodents can use for nesting.
• Do not leave scraps of food in the garden or yard.
• Make sure all waste is kept in your wheeled or communal bins with lids closed. Do not leave bags of side waste - rats are attracted to bags due to the food or clutter they contain and will rip open bags to get inside.
• Use a specialist feeder or table to feed wild birds. Do not feed the rats as well.