With the UK enduring it’s fourth heatwave of the year, homeowners are being warned that while they’re enjoying barbecues and garden parties, there may be some unwanted guests – rats.
In response, Kara Gammell, home insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, has offered expert advice on what to look out for, how to prevent rats entering your property and what to do if you suspect rats.
Why rats are more active in the summer months
Kara comments “While rats are active throughout the year, activity can increase during the summer months because the warmer weather creates ideal conditions for feeding and breeding.
“With summer inviting more people to spend time in their garden enjoying barbecues and meals outside, there’s more likely to be scraps of food left out which can attract rodents.
“With this summer being extra hot and dry, rats are more likely to venture closer to homes and gardens as they search for water sources. Ponds, pet bowls, dripping taps and leaking pipes all provide a water source and make gardens more appealing to rats.“
Why do rats chew through electrical wiring outdoors?
“Rats may be small, but the damage that they can cause can be huge. Rats’ teeth are constantly growing, which means they need to gnaw regularly to keep them at a manageable length. Unfortunately, outdoor wiring and electrical cables are an easy target for rats, as they’re readily accessible and provide material they can chew through.
“If you have any outdoor appliances that have wiring, such as lighting, speakers, lawnmowers, make sure they are stored away or kept indoors overnight to protect them from rats.
“Make sure to check your outdoor cables and electrical equipment for any signs of damage, especially if you’ve noticed any other signs of rat activity around your property.”
What damage can rats do to outdoor electrical equipment?
“Rats can pose a serious threat to your electrical appliances. If the protective coating around an electrical cable has been chewed by a rat, it can expose the wiring underneath, causing short circuits, power failures or breaking the appliance itself.
“In some cases, damaged wiring can increase the risk of electrical fires, particularly if it rains or the wiring comes into contact with other materials. They can also chew through insulation, plastic components and other materials, meaning an infestation can potentially result in costly repairs.
“And here’s the sting in the tail: standard home insurance typically won’t cover pest infestations because insurers view it as a maintenance issue rather than a sudden, unforeseen event like a fire or storm. That means the cost of removing rats – or repairing the damage to your garden – will likely come straight out of your own pocket.
“Some insurers do offer home emergency cover as an optional extra, and this can sometimes include pest removal. But don’t assume you’re fully protected. This type of cover generally won’t pay out for any damage rats cause to your property, and outbuildings such as sheds and garages are also often excluded.
What preventative steps can you take to stop rats?
“Taking preventative steps to keep rodents out is far cheaper – and far less stressful – than dealing with an infestation once they’ve moved in.
Remove potential food sources – Keep rubbish secure and out of reach of any rats, make sure any bin lids are firmly closed and avoid leaving food waste outdoors or exposed in any way.
Keep your garden tidy – Ensure your grass is trimmed and remove potential hiding or nesting spots for rats, including debris, discarded furniture, or overgrown plants and shrubs. If you have bird feeders, position them away from the house and clear fallen seed regularly.”
Close off possible entry points – Rats can squeeze through gaps as small as a 2p coin, so inspect cracks, broken vents, gaps around doors and unsealed openings around pipes. Expanding foam, mesh sheeting and steel wool can all be effective for sealing potential access routes, depending on the location.
Stay on top of maintenance – Make sure drain covers are intact, secure and properly fitted, as damaged or missing covers can provide rats with an easy route into your property. If you hear scratching in the pipes, it could be a sign that rats are trying to gain access.
Keep an eye on electrical equipment – Where possible, keep cables off the ground, check them regularly for signs of gnawing, move any electrical appliances indoors overnight and replace any damaged wiring rather than attempting to cover it up. If you suspect a cable has been chewed, switch off the power and contact a qualified electrician to inspect it, rather than trying to fix it yourself.
Act fast – If you suspect rats, contact a pest control professional and inform your home insurer of any damage. Swift action can prevent costly structural damage or even electrical fires caused by chewed wires.”