Rat Infestation in the UK
Rats are one of the most serious pest problems a UK property owner can face. The brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) is the most common species found in homes, businesses and gardens across England, Scotland and Wales. A rat infestation can cause structural damage, spread disease, and contaminate food supplies.
PestGuard's certified rat control engineers operate across the entire UK, with same-day response available in most areas. We use a combination of professional-grade rodenticide, mechanical trapping and permanent proofing to eliminate rat problems at their source.
Signs of a Rat Infestation
Don't wait until you see a rat. These early warning signs mean you need professional help now:
- 🖤 Dark, capsule-shaped droppings near food or in cupboards
- 🦷 Gnaw marks on cables, wood or food packaging
- 👃 Strong ammonia smell — especially in enclosed spaces
- 👣 Smear marks along walls and skirting boards
- 🕳️ Burrow holes in garden soil or under decking
- 🔊 Scratching or scuttling sounds at night
- 🪹 Nesting material (shredded paper, fabric)
- 🔦 Footprints in dusty or muddy areas
Common Rat Problems in UK Homes
Rats access properties through a wide variety of entry points. Our engineers identify and seal these permanently as part of every treatment:
- 🏠 Under floorboards and in wall cavities
- 🚽 Via drain systems and broken pipes
- 🌿 Through garden burrows near outbuildings
- 🏚️ Via gaps in roofing and loft spaces
- 📦 In garage and shed storage areas
- 🌳 From neighbouring overgrown gardens
Our Rat Treatment Process
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Site Survey & Assessment
Your engineer will conduct a thorough inspection of the property to identify entry points, harbourage areas, and the scale of the infestation.
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Treatment Plan
A tailored treatment plan is agreed with you before work begins. We explain exactly what we'll do, what products we use, and what to expect.
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Rodenticide Baiting & Trapping
Professional-grade rodenticide bait stations are placed in key locations. Mechanical traps may also be used in sensitive areas such as kitchens or near children's play areas.
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Proofing & Exclusion
All identified entry points are sealed using steel mesh, expanding foam, or concrete repair — preventing future access permanently.
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Follow-Up Visits
We return to check bait stations, remove dead rodents, and confirm the infestation has been cleared. Included in all treatment packages.
Residential Rat Control
Whether you have rats in your kitchen, loft, garden or under the floorboards — our domestic rat control service covers all property types. Treatments are carried out discreetly in unmarked vehicles, and all products are safe for use around children and pets when applied by our certified engineers.
Commercial Rat Control
A rat infestation in a commercial premises is a serious health & safety issue. PestGuard provides contract pest control services for restaurants, food retailers, warehouses, offices and commercial premises of all sizes. We operate out of hours to minimise disruption to your business.
Pricing Guide
All prices include a site survey, treatment, and follow-up visit. VAT is charged at the standard rate.
Domestic
£95+
Starting from, per visit
- ✓ Site survey included
- ✓ Bait stations placed
- ✓ 1 follow-up visit
- ✓ Advice on proofing
Standard Package
£195+
Most popular — full treatment
- ✓ Full survey & assessment
- ✓ Multiple bait stations
- ✓ 2 follow-up visits
- ✓ Entry point proofing
- ✓ 30-day guarantee
Commercial
POA
Site-dependent pricing
- ✓ HACCP documentation
- ✓ Contract service
- ✓ Emergency callouts
- ✓ Service reports
Why Choose PestGuard?
- 🏅 BPCA accredited engineers only
- ⚡ Same-day response across the UK
- 🔒 Fully insured — £5m public liability
- ✅ Guaranteed results or we return free
- 🚐 Discreet, unmarked vehicles
- 📋 Full documentation provided
Rat Control FAQs
How quickly can you get to me?
In most UK cities and large towns, we can have a certified engineer with you within 60 minutes. In rural areas, same-day visits are usually available. Call our 24/7 line and we'll give you an exact ETA.
How many visits will I need?
Most domestic rat infestations are resolved in 2–3 visits. The first visit involves survey and treatment; subsequent visits check bait stations and confirm the problem is cleared. Severe infestations may require more visits, all included in our guarantee.
Is the treatment safe for children and pets?
Yes. All products used by PestGuard engineers are approved by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) and applied to professional standards. Bait stations are tamper-resistant and placed in locations inaccessible to children and pets.
Can rats come back after treatment?
Proofing work carried out as part of your treatment permanently seals entry points. If rats return within the guarantee period, we return at no extra charge. Long-term, maintaining sealed entry points and good waste management prevents re-infestation.
Do I need to leave my home during treatment?
In most cases, no. Our treatments are designed to be carried out with minimal disruption. Your engineer will advise you if any area needs to be vacated temporarily.