Rodents such as rats and mice are one of the most common pests in the UK. They can cause serious problems in both homes and businesses. Rodents spread disease, contaminate food, and damage property by chewing through wires, pipes, and insulation. A small infestation can quickly grow, as rodents breed rapidly and are skilled at hiding in hard-to-reach places.
Signs of a rodent problem include droppings, gnaw marks, scratching noises, and nests made from shredded materials. You may also notice a strong smell or spot grease marks along walls where rodents travel. If left untreated, infestations can get out of control and pose health and safety risks.
Rats or Mice
Rats and mice are treated differently, so the first job is working out which you have. Tower Hamlets Council's identification guide gives the simplest tests. Mouse droppings are about the size and shape of a grain of rice, while rat droppings are closer to a baked bean. A mouse's body is around 5 to 7cm long, with a tail longer than its body and large ears. A rat's body is around 13 to 15cm, with a shorter tail and quite small ears. Both gnaw cables and woodwork such as skirting boards and doors. Our guide to the signs of a rat infestation covers what else to look for.
Rats and mice can spread leptospirosis, also known as Weil's disease, through their urine. The NHS says it is rare in the UK, but it is a good reason never to handle droppings or dead rodents with bare hands. If you are thinking of tackling them yourself, note that glue traps for rodents are against the law in England without a licence, and only professional pest controllers can hold one, for exceptional cases.
Rodents Around Romney Marsh and the Kent Coast
Where you live affects how rodents get in. Romney Marsh is drained by around 350km of watercourses maintained by its internal drainage board, on top of the main rivers. The Wildlife Trusts note that brown rats can be found almost everywhere in the UK, from farmland, wetlands and freshwater to towns and gardens, and that they dig their own burrows. Homes and outbuildings beside dykes and ditches are therefore worth proofing well.
Mice spread between neighbouring homes too. Plymouth City Council's guidance notes that mice often move between flats and terraced houses, nest in lofts and under floors, and can squeeze through a hole the size of a pencil. In a terrace, such as those in Folkestone and Hythe, it helps when neighbours deal with the problem together. Rats and mice also look for warmth when the temperature drops, which is why Ribble Valley Borough Council advises sealing small gaps and checking unused spaces regularly.
Rats, Mice and the Law
Rats and mice are not only a private matter. Under section 3 of the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949, the occupier of any land other than agricultural land must notify the local council straight away if they know that rats or mice are living on it or visiting it in substantial numbers. Section 4 of the same Act lets the council serve notice on the owner or occupier, requiring them to take reasonable steps to destroy the rats or mice and keep the land free of them.
In a rented home, Shelter's guide to pests in rented homes says the landlord must deal with an infestation caused by a repair they are responsible for, while a tenant could be responsible if they do something that encourages pests, such as leaving food or rubbish out. Landlords can read more in our guide on whether landlords can use pest control.
Rodent Control Process
We use a thorough process to identify and remove rodent infestations effectively.
01 Rodent Control Inspection
A professional pest control technician will inspect your property to confirm the type of rodent present and the scale of the problem. We identify entry points, nesting areas, and food sources. From there, we create a tailored treatment plan to suit your property and situation.
02 Rodent Control Treatment
Our treatments combine safe, targeted methods such as traps, baits, and proofing techniques. We focus on eliminating existing infestations and preventing rodents from re-entering. Treatments are carried out professionally to minimise risk to people, pets, and the environment.
Preventing Future Rodent Problems
Once rodents are removed, prevention is key to stopping them from coming back. A few practical steps can help.
- Seal holes, gaps, and cracks around doors, windows, pipes, and vents.
- Keep food in sealed containers and clear away spillages quickly.
- Store waste securely in bins with tight-fitting lids.
- Reduce clutter and nesting materials inside sheds, lofts, and storage areas.
- Keep outdoor spaces tidy by cutting back vegetation and removing debris.
By following these steps alongside professional pest control, you can protect your property from further rodent activity.