The mischief of rats causes havoc across London, with increasing reports of sightings in storage facilities, warehouses, service stations, retail establishments and residential properties. In 2019, we carried out 773 initial visits for rats and over 2,000 follow up visits – an increase from 678 initial visits in 2018.

Rats in London are now seeking refuge above ground due to heavy rainfall and low temperatures. The pesky rodents travel through sewers, often scuttling up drainpipes to make their way into offices, schools or homes. Refurbishment and demolition work also increases the risk of rat infestations. Rats build their nests beneath rubble and nearby litter provides a consistent food source.

If rats go unreported, infestations can develop at a rapid rate. Rats are prolific breeders and can procreate within two to three months of birth. Females commonly breed up to seven times a year and can produce up to ten young each time. Once rats are accustomed to their new warm environment and ideal breeding ground, they’re reluctant to move elsewhere.

Make it difficult for them to take up residence

As human environments provide food and shelter, food service establishments are a prime spot for rat infestations. It’s common knowledge that clearing and storing away perishables can prevent visits from your local rats, but it can take more than good basic hygiene to keep them away. Gaps or small crevices should be filled appropriately to reduce the number of entry points for rodents and make it difficult for them to take up residence.

Get the professionals in

Although people often attempt to solve rat infestations with glue or poison traps, if you want to get rid of rats for good and reduce the potential health risk to staff and customers, it’s best to employ a professional company. Inhalation or direct contact with rat urine, faeces or saliva can lead to serious health issues, so it’s advisable not to handle rats or rodents and make sure that if you do come into contact with them, that you thoroughly wash your hands immediately.

When rats come into close contact with machinery, clothing and consumable goods, they can transfer some nasty and potentially fatal diseases. Not only do rats harbour harmful bacteria, viruses and worms, but they also pick up those carried by fleas, ticks, lice and mosquitoes. If you think the new Coronavirus is cause for concern, you’ll be shocked to learn that rodents are reportedly responsible for more deaths than all wars within the last thousand years combined.

Preventing contamination by rats should be a top priority for organisations in London and it can also save thousands in potential damage to property. So, speak to our team at London Network for Pest Solutions to learn about our rapid and affordable pest control solutions to pest-proof your home or business.

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