How to Prevent and Deal with Rodent Infestations

DID YOU KNOW: The largest rat ever caught in the UK was a 21-inch rat captured in Bournemouth in 2018?  That's a size not to be sniffed at!

Rodents aren’t just unwanted guests—they’re destructive, disease-spreading nuisances that can turn your property into chaos. From gnawing on wires to spreading over 35 diseases, they’re the housemates nobody wants. Here’s how to spot the signs and take action before they settle in for good.

How to Spot a Rodent Problem

1. Droppings
   Tiny black pellets aren’t just unsightly; they’re hazardous. If you find them, proceed with caution—they’re likely teeming with bacteria and viruses.

2. Gnaw Marks
   Chewed wires, skirting boards, or furniture are telltale signs. Rodents love to keep their teeth sharp, even if it means your belongings pay the price.

3. Scuffling Noises
   Scratches, squeaks, or the ominous sound of something moving in your walls or ceiling? It’s not your imagination.

4. Nests
   Rodents craft cozy homes out of paper, fabric, and fluff. If you spot these materials out of place, there’s probably a nest nearby.

5. Rodents in Sight
   If you see a mouse or rat, you can bet it’s not flying solo. These creatures breed quickly, so catching them early is critical.

How Are They Getting In?

Rodents are experts at sneaking in through gaps you didn’t even know existed. Here are their top entryways:

• Cracks in Walls: A hole the size of a coin is a wide-open door to a rat. Patch them up!
• Roof Holes: Even a small gap in the roof can let them in, where they’ll wreak havoc in your attic.
• Window Gaps: Unsealed windows or broken panes are an easy entry point—fix them fast.
• Toilet Pipes: Believe it or not, rats can swim up pipes. A closed toilet lid might just save you a nightmare.
• Vents: Many vents have gaps large enough for rodents. Cover them with metal screens to shut them out.

Quick Tips to Keep Rodents Away

• Seal It Up: Inspect and block every possible entry point. If you think it’s too small, think again.
• Manage Waste: Dispose of garbage regularly and store food in sealed containers.
• Keep it Dry: Fix leaks and ensure basements and storage areas are dry and well-ventilated.
• Declutter: Rodents love hiding spots. Reduce clutter to make your property less appealing to them.

Ready to Take Control?

Rodents may be clever, but you’re smarter. Maxam’s new range of rodent control products makes it easy to protect your home or property from these uninvited guests.

0131 442 4343
info@maxam.co.uk

Act now—because the only thing worse than finding a rat is knowing it invited all its friends.