Rat Guide

1. THE DANGERS: WHY WE CONTROL RATS

PATHOGENS AND DISEASE

Rats communicate and establish territory by urinating in various locations, posing a notable public health threat. They may harbour harmful diseases that can be transmitted to humans, typically through contact with rat urine or their bodies in food preparation spaces.

These include:

• Leptospirosis (often referred to as Weil’s disease)
• Salmonella
• Listeria
• Toxoplasma gondii
• Hantavirus

Black rats have been predominantly accused of causing the Black Death plague that ravaged Europe between the 14th and 17th Centuries. However, a 2015 study suggests they might not be truly accountable for the pandemic.

2. the impact

PROPERTY DAMAGE

The issues linked with rats extend beyond public health concerns; they also possess a talent for inflicting structural damage.

Rats need to gnaw to maintain their teeth, and they don't hesitate to chew on various items. Typical gnawing spots include the covering on electrical cables, posing a considerable fire hazard, and pipes, potentially leading to water and gas leaks.

Cinderblock, wood, glass, metal, bone—rats' teeth are up for almost any challenge, making them capable of causing extensive damage to homes, businesses, and occasionally, even fingers. Issues such as flooding from gnawed pipes and electrical fires resulting from chewed wires may be linked to rat infestations.

RATS AROUND BUSINESSES

Property owners are legally obligated under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 to maintain premises free of rodents. If rodents pose a threat to health or property, owners must report infestations to the local authority.
If a company or organization faces a widely publicised rat issue, it can significantly harm its reputation.

Negative reviews of businesses or products can be easily accessed and shared online. A rat seen in a restaurant might lead to the closure of the establishment, and nobody desires to share a hotel swimming pool with a swimming rodent.

In addition to the reputation consequences, businesses discovered to have a pest problem may also incur fines. Such fines typically involve considerable costs, and repeated offenders are at risk of facing legal action. Business owners lacking sufficient pest management procedures may receive enforcement notices from Environmental Health Officers.

3. Pest Facts

TYPES OF RAT IN THE UK

In Britain, there are two rat species, with the most prevalent being Rattus Norvegicus, also referred to as the Brown Rat or Common Rat.

The second species is Rattus Rattus, commonly known as the Black Rat or Ship Rat, and it is seldom found in the UK today.

The Brown Rat seeks homes that offer food, water, and shelter. Indoors, they inhabit roof spaces, wall cavities, or under floorboards. In outdoor spaces, they burrow into grassy banks or beneath sheds. Rat holes next to solid structures are clear indicators of a nest.

Brown rats are also often found living in sewer systems. Black rats are rare in Britain but occasionally found in shipping ports. They are also incredibly agile and so may be found nesting in roof spaces or attics.

4. GETTING RID OF RATS

DIY METHODS

Rats possess inherent survival instincts, displaying adaptability, high mobility, and rapid breeding. Managing rat infestations can prove challenging for the untrained. For effective resolution, we recommend you use professional services by Contego.

You may choose a DIY approach by purchasing amateur-use rat poisons and traps from hardware stores or garden centres, it's essential to recognise that rats are initially wary of new objects in their environment, requiring patience for success.

Careful consideration is vital when placing poisons or traps to guarantee they are secure and out of reach of non-target animals, children, and pets. It’s crucial you adhere to label instructions and properly disposing of any deceased rodents. In cases where a rat consumes poison and perishes in an inaccessible area, such as a cavity or roof space, there may be an unpleasant odour.

If unable to locate the carcass, it could take weeks for decomposition and dissipation of the smell, posing a risk of secondary poisoning to non-target animals. While self-tackling these pests is not the recommended course, if you decide to proceed, it is imperative to take all necessary precautions to avoid collateral damage and personal injury.

PROFESSIONAL PEST CONTROL

Facing a rat infestation can be a formidable challenge. These resilient creatures are not only hard-wired to survive but also exhibit adaptability, high mobility, and rapid breeding. Tackling such a situation without the right expertise can prove to be an uphill task for the untrained individual. Contego, as a professional pest control company, specialises in addressing the complexities of rat-related issues.

Our team, possesses the knowledge and experience needed to effectively manage rat infestations. Choosing Contego means opting for a solution backed by expertise and a commitment to quality service. Contego's professionals are equipped to handle the aftermath, preventing secondary risks to non-target animals. When it comes to rat-related problems, the wisdom lies in seeking professional help.

Contego stands ready to provide the expertise needed for a thorough and lasting solution, safeguarding your environment effectively and responsibly.