Yes. Rats can be dangerous and pose serious health risks. If cornered, they may bite, and they can spread diseases such as leptospirosis and hantavirus through their urine, droppings, and bites.

Rats are generally larger and heavier than mice. They have a thicker body, a blunter snout and relatively smaller ears. Mice are smaller, with a more pointed nose, larger floppy ears and a longer, slimmer tail. If you are not sure which you have, a Pestpatrol technician can identify the species during your inspection.

Rats are naturally cautious animals. They are often put off by the scent of predators such as cats and dogs, as well as sudden movement, noise and bright lights. However, these things alone will not clear an infestation, so professional rodent control is usually needed.

Rats are drawn to sheltered places where they can nest, along with easy food sources. Pet food left outside, bird seed on the ground, rubbish bags, compost, and fallen or unpicked fruit and vegetables can all attract them. Keeping these under control makes your property far less appealing to rats.

If you catch a live rat or mouse, avoid handling it directly. Wear gloves and keep the trap away from children and pets. Where it is safe and legal, you can release it well away from your home in a quiet outdoor area. A vet can also euthanise the animal humanely. If you are unsure what to do, contact Pestpatrol and we will deal with it safely for you.

Professional pest controllers use a combination of methods such as proofing entry points, placing tamper resistant bait stations, using traps, and advising on hygiene and housekeeping. A Pestpatrol technician will design a rodent treatment plan tailored to your property to remove the infestation and help stop it coming back.

The cost of rodent pest control depends on several factors, including the size and type of the property, how severe the infestation is and how many visits are needed. Pestpatrol provides tailored quotes based on your situation, so the best way to find out the price is to contact us for a free, no obligation survey and quotation.

Common signs include droppings, scratching noises in walls or ceilings, gnaw marks on food packaging, cables or skirting boards, a strong musty smell, and greasy rub marks along walls or pipes. A Pestpatrol technician can confirm which species you have during an inspection.

Yes. Safety is always our priority. We only use professional products and place them in secure, tamper resistant units where needed. Your technician will explain any precautions you should take and answer any questions before treatment starts.

Shop bought traps and baits may reduce numbers for a short time, but they often miss hidden entry points and nesting areas. This means the problem comes back. Professional rodent control focuses on both removal and long term prevention.