Rat threat to UK properties this winter

UK homeowners are being warned that rat infestations could slash property prices, derail house sales, and even leave them without insurance cover.

Home insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk are urging households to tackle rodent problems early, as the country faces a predicted surge* in rat activity this winter, partly caused by the warmest summer on record.**

The UK was recently warned to prepare for a horrendous infestation this winter, after hot summer weather and food waste has created optimal conditions for vermin – plus warmer temperatures accelerate rat breeding cycles dramatically,*** making it more important than ever for households to stay vigilant.

Rat infestations can knock up to 20% off a property’s value in the UK due to the risks they pose and the damage they cause – with figures potentially reaching up to £53k based on average property prices.****

Rats must also legally be declared during the sale of a house. Failure to do so can be seen as mis-selling a home, which could then lead to legal action and potentially cancel a sale.

Even if a house isn’t on the market, homeowners are urged to be on the lookout for early signs of rats and take steps to prevent an infestation to avoid long term damage, protect their family’s health, and avoid costly repair bills.

Most insurance providers won’t cover damages caused by rats because an infestation is not considered an unforeseen risk, but rather an issue caused by a lack of maintenance.

With estimates putting the number of rats in the UK anywhere between 10.5 and 120 million, it’s important that homeowners know what to watch out for.*****

Signs of rats include droppings, rub marks, and gnawed holes in bags of foodstuffs – with houses that have any unsealed entry points at higher risk.

Greg Wilson, home insurance expert and CEO at Quotezone said: “Rats are far more than just a nuisance – these unwanted intruders are a serious threat to properties and household finances.

“They pose significant health risks to humans and pets too, due to the various illnesses they carry which can be passed on through their droppings, urine, or even a bite.

“It’s important to act at the first sign of rodent activity, whether the property is on the market or not. Early intervention can prevent costly repairs and ensure the home remains safe and insurable.

“When homeowners take out home insurance, they agree the property will be well maintained and cared for. Incidents that arise due to wear and tear will not likely be covered and leave owners vulnerable – making it crucial to do property checks now, before the darker evenings arrive, sealing any gaps and making sure food sources can’t be accessed.”

Six ways to help protect your home from rats:

1.Seal entry points

Use steel wool, wire mesh, or caulk to close any gaps, cracks, and holes in walls, foundations, and around doors and windows.

2.Maintain cleanliness

Kitchens, pantries and food storage should be kept clean and free of any crumbs or spills, and food should be kept in airtight containers.

3.Reduce outdoor attractions

Avoid leaving rotting food in compost, clear garden debris where rats can nest, and trim back any trees or shrubs so branches don’t touch the house.

4.Limit water sources

Ensure gutters and drains are clean, and fix any leaking taps or pipes. Rats are attracted to standing water.

5.Use deterrents

Natural deterrents like peppermint oil, ammonia, or ultrasonic devices all work well to help keep rats away.

6.Professional pest control

For large infestations or persistent problems, hire a licensed pest control professional to come out, assess and treat your property.

Standard home insurance doesn’t normally cover rat infestations but there are add on policies such as home emergency cover which can help with the cost of removing the infestation. Buildings cover may also help with any adverse side effects from the infestation such as water damage from gnawed pipes but homeowners need to check their policy for details.

As a price comparison site, Quotezone.co.uk helps over 4 million customers every year find savings on all sorts of essentials, such as home and landlord insurance.

References:
*https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/08/25/brace-for-plague-of-rats-after-sweltering-summer/
**https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/blog/2025/how-does-summer-2025-compare-to-summer-1976
***https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/rats-vermin-pest-control-summer-heatwave-b2814108.html
****https://theintermediary.co.uk/2025/05/rat-infestation-could-knock-up-to-20-off-property-values-warns-property-expert/
*****https://bpca.org.uk/a-z-of-pest-advice/rat-control-how-to-get-rid-of-and-prevent-rats-bpca-a-z-of-pests/188991