Reasons for control

• Rats spread disease.
• Diseases such as Leptospirosis, salmonella food poisoning, Typhus and weils diseases, which can all be fatal to humans.
• Rats also cause damage by gnawing wood, metal and electricity cables.
• Their burrowing can cause subsidence.
• They may eat food intended for human consumption.

Biology

• There are two main types of rats in Britain, the Common Rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the Ship rat (Rattus rattus). The common rat is the most likely species you will encounter.
• An adult rat weighs approximately 100 to 500 grams and is about 200-300mm long.
• They are usually brown but black and albino varieties are reasonably common.
• Their tails are shorter than their bodies and are usually dark on top and light below.
• Rats live for about a year.
• During their life female rats can have several litters. The average litter size is usually between 7 and 10.
• The common rat can be found anywhere that offers shelter. They are efficient burrowers and can often be found around compost heaps, hedges and sheds. In houses they will nest in wall cavities and boards.
• They are agile climbers.
• Rats are mainly active at night, however it is not unusual to see them during the day foraging for food and water.

Prevention and control

• Remove any source of food and water.
• Make sure dustbin lids fit properly and that household waste is properly disposed of.
• Rats can be attracted to bird food so use a rat proof bird table.
• Clear areas of overgrown garden and avoid accumulation of rubbish, piles of wood and brick rubble.
• Avoid access holes into buildings e.g. broken windows, damaged airbricks and badly fitted doors.
• Only dispose of garden and vegetable matter NOT meat or cereal products on compost heaps.
• Always clean areas thoroughly where rats have been.

Treatment
If you suspect you have a rat problem, the pest control officer can advise you on the best action.
It may be suggested that poison be put down to eradicate the rats. This treatment will be carried out under strict control; children and pets must be kept away from poison baits.

If poison bait is used on your premises, you will be advised of the type of poison and action in case of accidental poisoning. Revisits will be made until the infestation is cleared. The poison used by Guildford Borough Council is an anticoagulant containing either 0.005% Bromadiolone or 0.005% Difenacoum.

For specific information on mammals, please visit the Mammal Society website (this page opens in a new window).

Environmental Health and Licensing Services   
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
Surrey
GU2 4BB

Tel:  01483 444371
Fax: 01483 444546
Email: environmentalhealth@guildford.gov.uk