Flooding caused by ongoing downpours could bring added risk of rat infestations, experts warn

The National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) said heavy rain and flooding creates ideal conditions for increased rodent activity.

Ellen Manning
·4-min read
A Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus) looks at the camera, caught by surprise.
Recent flooding could lead to a rise in rat infestations, experts have warned. (Stock image: Getty)

As parts of the UK remain flooded following torrential rain, experts have warned of another potential impact of the downpours - rat infestations.

The National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) said heavy rain and flooding not only causes disruption to homes and businesses, but also creates ideal conditions for increased rodent activity, forcing rats and mice to seek refuge in drier places like homes, offices and businesses.

The warning comes after parts of the country were left underwater following heavy rainfall last week. On Sunday (29 September), 32 flood warnings were still in place, along with 92 flood alerts.

Grahame Turner, technical manager at the NPTA, said: “Rats and mice will often live in burrows underground, and rats will also live in drains and sewers. Floods can cause these spaces to become waterlogged and lead to the rodents being flushed from their normal habitat.

“They will seek refuge in drier, elevated areas such as homes, offices, and commercial properties including, of course, food businesses.

“This increases the likelihood of infestations in places that might not typically experience rodent problems.”

Dirty disgusting rats on area that was filled with sewage, smelly, damp, and garbage bags. Referring to the problem of rats in the city, disease outbreaks from animals, filth of city. Selective focus.
As rats seek refuge from floods, they can gravitate towards food businesses, experts have warned. (Stock image: Getty)

The warning comes as the Met Office issued new weather warnings for strong winds on Sunday, along with further rain possible in flood hit areas on Monday.

A yellow warning for rain is in place from 8am on Monday to 3am on Tuesday covering parts of the north-east Midlands and east and northeast England, with the potential for 20-40 mm of rain in some areas, with others getting as much as 60-80 mm.

Katharine Smith, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said: "Rainfall arriving on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday gives potential for further minor surface water and river flooding impacts across parts of England and Wales.

"Environment Agency teams continue to be out on the ground, supporting local authorities in responding to surface water flooding. We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services on the roads and not to drive through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car."

She urged people to check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following the Environment Agency on X for the latest flood updates.

Turner, from the NPTA, added: “Understanding how weather impacts rodent behaviour, and taking proactive steps to rodent-proof your property, can help protect your home or business from infestations.

“Badly constructed, poorly maintained or damaged drains and pipes can act as entry points, bringing rodents straight into your property.”

TEWKESBURY, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 27: (EDITORS NOTE: Image has been taken using a Drone) The fields surrounding Tewkesbury Abbey are seen flooded after heavy rain on September 27, 2024 near Tewkesbury, England. In many parts of England, the week is ending as it began, with widespread travel disruption and flooding caused by heavy rains. (Photo by Annabel Lee-Ellis/Getty Images)
Parts of the country that are already underwater could get more rain - bringing a risk of rat infestations. (Getty)

The NPTA has issued advice on how to protect your home, office, or business from an invasion of vermin due to flooding. It includes:-

  • Inspect and Seal Entry Points This means checking your property for any gaps, cracks, or holes where rodents could enter, paying special attention to areas where pipes, cables, or drains enter the building, and seal any potential entry points. These could be at ground level, below the surface or at roof height.

  • Keep Food and Waste Secure Make sure all food is stored in airtight containers and keep rubbish in bins with tight-fitting lids. Businesses, especially in food service, should ensure waste is removed frequently and stored in secure outdoor bins.

  • Check Drains and Gutters Blocked drains increase the risk of flooding and damaged drains create easy access points for rodents looking for a way into your property. Look for any signs of damage to pipes or drainage systems and repair them promptly.

  • Consult a Professional Pest Controller If you suspect that rodents have entered your property after the recent poor weather, act quickly to prevent it from becoming a full-blown infestation and contact a recognised pest control professional.

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