Homeowners are being urged to head to their local Asda store to snap up a 36p item which could be crucial at keeping rats out of their houses. In the wake of record-breaking temperatures across the UK and with heatwaves continuing to dominate the summer, the chance of seeing rats in your garden may be greater. This is because the extreme heat has dried up many of their natural water resources, prompting them to leave the safety of drains, sewers, and other underground habitats to explore new territories on their quest for hydration and respite from the high temperatures.
Why Rats Are More Active in Summer
Our gardens have added appeal for rats throughout the summer, thanks to accessible water sources and the potential access to food waste via barbecues and other al fresco meals. The UK is home to two species of the pest - the brown rat, also known as the common rat or the sewer rat, and the rare black rat, sometimes referred to as the ship rat. Rat populations vary wildly, but are estimated at anywhere from 10 million to more than 100 million. They’re very resourceful animals, and anyone not keen on them may be horrified to learn rats can squeeze through gaps around the size of a £1 coin, or 20mm, allowing them to enter homes, sheds, and more.
Expert Advice on Sealing Entry Points
Saif Derzi, founder of cash house buyers, Property Buyers Today, said: “Homeowners should check for gaps around pipes and cables, damaged air bricks, cracks in walls and foundations, and broken drains or drainage systems. The biggest mistake people make is assuming rats need a large opening to get inside.” Saif continued: “People tend to associate rat problems with autumn and winter, but summer is often when populations expand, and infestations begin. The first step is identifying and sealing potential entry points before rats can get inside.
“Small gaps around pipes and cables can often be sealed using wire wool, and a pack of three at Asda costs only £1.08, which comes out to 36p per piece. Cement or specialist expanding foam can also work, while damaged air bricks should be fitted with metal mesh covers that maintain ventilation while preventing access.”
Preventative Measures and Warning Signs
Offering further guidance, Saif added: “Homeowners should also ensure bins are securely closed, remove potential food sources where possible, and avoid leaving pet food outside overnight. If you spot signs of rats, it’s important to act quickly. Common warning signs include droppings, scratching noises, gnaw marks, and damage to insulation, wiring and pipework. While preventative measures can help, homeowners dealing with an active infestation should seek professional pest control advice as soon as possible. DIY solutions often fail to tackle the root cause of the problem.”
Impact on Property and Sales
The expert stressed the importance of dealing with a rat infestation rather than leaving it alone, as the creatures can cause significant property damage “from chewed electrical wiring and damaged insulation, to compromised pipework.” Saif warned: “In severe cases, infestations can also impact a property’s saleability. Mortgage lenders may require evidence that an infestation has been professionally treated before approving a loan, which can delay or complicate a sale.”
