UK homeowners warned of rising rat infestations this autumn

UK homeowners are being warned of a potential rise in rat sightings this autumn following a summer of record-breaking temperatures, which provided ideal breeding conditions for rodents.

Experts from Tiger and the British Pest Control Association note that as weather cools, rats are likely to seek warm, dry shelter indoors. Such infestations can cause significant structural damage by chewing through floorboards, pipes, and electrical wiring, potentially creating fire risks or burst pipes.

Beyond physical damage, infestations can impact property value, with estimates suggesting a reduction of up to 20%. Additionally, homeowners are legally required to declare the presence of rats when selling a property. Insurance experts from MoneySuperMarket have cautioned that standard home insurance policies typically do not cover pest infestations.