When the evenings turn cold, the rats that have been living outside look for somewhere warmer. A semi next to a park can look very inviting indeed.
Rats live outdoors much of the year, in burrows, hedges and under sheds. Cold weather and shorter days reduce the food they find, and they look for shelter. A house offers warmth, storage and quiet places such as lofts, under-stair cupboards and the space beneath a bath. The first sign is often a sound, a scratching in the evening when the house is quiet.
Woodthorpe is a north-eastern suburb around Woodthorpe Park, mostly inter-war and post-war semi-detached housing. Areas next to open ground often see rats using green spaces for cover, then following fences and gardens towards houses. A long back garden with a shed and compost bin is a handy route. Garages attached to semis are another point of entry, since they often have gaps under the door and piles of stored items.
Hedges, bird feeders and fallen fruit all provide food and cover, so rats can travel from one garden to the next without crossing open ground.
Tidy the garden edges. Move wood piles away from walls, keep compost covered and use bird feeders with trays. Close bins firmly and secure the garage door with a good seal at the bottom. Inside, store food in hard containers and keep pet food off the floor overnight.
Do not put out loose bait or traps where pets, children or wildlife could reach them. A rat can carry poisoned bait off to somewhere unexpected.
If you see droppings, hear noises or find gnawing, call early. A technician will trace the entry points, deal with the rats and give advice on proofing. Our free pest prevention survey covers the garden, garage and loft. How long it takes depends on the numbers and how easily they reach food.
Rats are cautious, so it may take several days for activity to fall after treatment. Proofing helps stop a repeat visit.
Garages deserve special attention in a semi. Keep stored food, pet feed and bird seed in metal or hard plastic bins, never loose bags. Raise boxes off the floor and leave a gap at the walls so you can see signs of activity. An annual tidy of the garage before winter removes many nesting spots.
Compost heaps need a lid or a sturdy base, because loose heaps next to fences are favourite spots for burrows.
Call 0115 937 5117 and we will arrange a visit to suit you.
Yes. Gaps under garage doors and stored items provide shelter and access. A rat may then move through gaps round pipes or an internal door into the house, so check the garage first.
Open green spaces give cover and food, so rats often use them as a base. That does not mean every house nearby has a problem, but sensible garden tidiness and gap-sealing are worth doing.
Tell us what you have seen and where, and we will come back to you. Prices are fixed and there is no call-out charge.
