Report a rat problem

Rats in your property

The common brown rat is dark brown in colour with a grey underneath. The body usually measures 20-27cm, with the tail a further 18-25cm.

If you see a rat outside your property on just one occasion, there is generally no need to contact us. Rats will appear for a number of reasons, but primarily when on the lookout for food.

Rat infestation

If you have a rat infestation you will most likely be able to find several signs including:

• The presence of rat droppings. These are wide and dark brown in colour resembling a large grain of rice
• Gnaw marks
• Hear scratching sounds
• Find evidence of trails where the rats have been travelling known as ‘runs’

Rats inhabit anywhere that provides food, water and shelter. In homes, they will live in roof spaces, wall cavities or under floorboards. In gardens, they will burrow into grassy banks or under sheds, and are often found living in sewer systems.

You can find advice on preventing a rat infestation on the British Pest Control Association’s website. If you regularly see rats, or clear evidence of the presence of rats, we recommend you contact our pest control service.

Rats in a neighbouring property

If you see rats coming from a neighbour's property, discuss this with them. They may already be aware and treating the problem. Overgrown gardens do not necessarily attract rats so do not assume that this is an issue.

Encourage your neighbours to take action to treat the problem. If they are unwilling to do this you can report the issue to us confidentially.

Rats in a public place

Rats live in many areas of the city and we have programmes in place to treat key areas.

If you see a rat in a public space, please report it to us. The information we gather will be used to support development of treatment plans.