Rat control

Rats can cause more than just a nuisance. Left unchecked, they multiply quickly, damage property, and pose serious health risks. If you suspect rat activity in or around your home, shed, garden or outbuildings, it’s important to act fast.

At Elimipest Southwest, we offer a professional rat control service backed by years of hands-on experience and up-to-date training. From the initial inspection to treatment and prevention, we provide everything you need to get the problem under control—quickly and discreetly.

Rat Problem

Rats are highly destructive rodents. They gnaw continuously—due to a condition called hypselodonty (ever-growing teeth)—and this habit often leads them to chew through timber, insulation, and even electrical wiring. In some cases, this damage can become a serious fire hazard.

Health is another major concern. Rats are known carriers of Leptospirosis (also known as Weil’s Disease), which can be fatal to both humans and pets. This disease is typically spread through rat urine and can contaminate water or soil around your property. While dogs can be vaccinated against it, the safest option is to keep rats out entirely.

Rat Problem

We typically carry out three visits, but this may vary depending on the extent of the infestation. Our approach is tailored and may include:

  • Humane baited or unbaited traps
  • Tamper-resistant bait boxes with approved rodenticides
  • Burrow baiting in gardens, hedgerows or around livestock enclosures
  • Night-time control using air rifles and night vision equipment
  • Drain surveys to identify entry points (with the option to fit rat flaps in pipework)

Once the infestation is under control, we can provide ongoing rat monitoring contracts to prevent future outbreaks. We’ll place clearly labelled and numbered bait boxes with non-lethal bait around key locations. These are checked monthly. If activity is detected, we switch to lethal bait or traps—but only when necessary. This approach is more environmentally responsible and reduces the risk of another infestation building up unnoticed.