Record-breaking UK summer temperatures have triggered a surge in rat breeding, and experts are urging homeowners to take action before autumn drives rodents indoors. With estimates putting the UK rat population between 10.5 and 120 million, a few minutes of prevention now could prevent costly damage.
Why rats are moving indoors
Summer 2026 was the hottest on record for the UK, creating ideal conditions for a bumper breeding season. As temperatures drop and wetter weather arrives, rats abandon their burrows and migrate into homes in search of food and shelter.
Rats are commonly found in UK gardens, especially where food, water, shelter or nesting areas are easy to find. Bird feeders, spilt seed, unsecured bins, compost heaps, fallen fruit, pet food and ponds can all attract them.
Signs of an infestation
Homeowners should watch for droppings, rub marks, and gnawed holes in bags of food. Ian Wilson, home insurance expert and managing director at Tiger.co.uk, warned: "Rats aren't just a nuisance; they can turn into a very expensive problem for homeowners."
"From chewing through electric cables and pipes to damaging insulation and woodwork, a rat infestation can cause severe damage to a property in a short space of time," he added. "As vermin infestations are typically treated as a preventable maintenance issue on standard policies by most insurers, it means homeowners could be left picking up the repair bill themselves."
How to rat-proof your property
Wilson advised: "As temperatures begin to drop, rats will be looking for somewhere warm and dry, making now the ideal time for homeowners to give their properties a quick check for gaps or holes, tidy up any outdoor areas and fix any leaks or drainage issues." He added: "Taking a few minutes now to rat-proof a property could potentially save homeowners thousands of pounds down the line."
Key steps include maintaining cleanliness in kitchens, pantries and food storage areas, keeping food in airtight containers, avoiding rotting food in compost, clearing garden debris, and trimming trees or shrubs away from the house. Deterrents like peppermint oil, ammonia, or ultrasonic devices can also help keep rats away. Peppermint oil is available for £2.99 on Amazon or £4.99 from Superdrug; its strong scent is unpleasant and overwhelming for rats, acting as a barrier to stop them entering the home.
