Rat Control
Rat Treatment & Removal Services
We provide professional rat control for homes and businesses across Yorkshire. Our team inspects the affected areas, identifies how rats are entering, and applies targeted treatment to remove the problem safely and discreetly.
We also advise on proofing and prevention to help reduce the risk of rats returning. Whether rats are in a loft, kitchen, garden, shed, garage or commercial property, we provide an effective solution with minimal disruption and long-term protection in mind. Every treatment is tailored to your property and the level of rat activity found.
Signs You Have a Rat Problem
✓ Droppings – Dark pellet-shaped droppings near cupboards, bins, lofts, or sheds
✓ Scratching noises – Movement sounds in walls, ceilings, lofts, or under floors
✓ Gnaw marks – Chewed wires, wood, plastic, food packaging, or pipework
✓ Grease marks – Dark smears along walls, skirting boards, pipes, or entry points
✓ Burrows or holes – Gaps around drains, gardens, sheds, walls, or foundations
Why Rat Infestations Demand Professional Control
Understanding Rat Behaviour:
- Rapid breeding – Rats can reproduce quickly, turning a small issue into a serious infestation
- Hidden nesting – Rats often nest in lofts, wall cavities, drains, sheds, and under floors
- Property damage – They can chew wires, wood, insulation, pipework, and stored items
- Health risk – Rats can contaminate food, surfaces, and water sources with bacteria
Professional Rat Control in Rotherham, Sheffield, Doncaster & Barnsley
A rat infestation can quickly become a serious problem if left untreated. Rats are highly adaptable pests that can enter properties through surprisingly small gaps and establish nests in lofts, wall cavities, gardens, sheds, garages, drains, and commercial premises. Once established, rat populations can grow rapidly, making early intervention essential.
At Yorkshire Pest Control, we provide professional rat treatment and removal services for both domestic and commercial properties. Our experienced technicians take the time to identify the source of the problem, locate entry points, and implement effective treatment methods tailored to the level of infestation present.
Rats are not only unpleasant to have around a property but can also pose significant health and safety risks. They are known to contaminate food preparation areas, damage insulation, chew electrical wiring, and spread harmful bacteria through their urine and droppings. In some cases, rat activity can lead to costly repairs and disruption to homes and businesses.
Our approach focuses on both elimination and prevention. While removing the immediate infestation is important, identifying why the problem occurred is equally critical. We provide practical advice and recommendations to help reduce the risk of future infestations, including proofing measures and habitat management where appropriate.
Whether you have noticed scratching noises in your loft, discovered droppings around your property, found evidence of gnawing, or simply suspect rat activity, our team can provide a prompt and professional response. Every property is different, which is why we tailor our treatment plans to suit the specific circumstances of each infestation.
We are committed to delivering effective rat control solutions with minimal disruption to your home or business. From initial inspection through to treatment and prevention advice, our goal is to provide lasting results and complete peace of mind.
If you are experiencing problems with rats anywhere on your property, contact Yorkshire Pest Control today to arrange an inspection and discuss the most effective solution for your situation.
Common Rat (Norway or Sewer Rat)
A large rodent, measuring up to 40cm long. Fur colour varies but is typically a dull grey shade.
Biology
Rats are omnivores—while they typically eat cereals and grains, they’ll take eggs or small chicks if food is scarce. A key trait of rats is neophobia—they’re cautious of new items, often taking 4–5 days to accept something unfamiliar. They prefer enclosed spaces and navigate using smell and touch, usually staying close to walls or pipes as they move. Despite their reputation, rats are very clean creatures, spending around 20% of their time grooming.
However, they can carry several diseases, most notably Weil’s Disease, which can be fatal to humans. Rats reach sexual maturity within 2–3 months and may produce up to 7 litters a year, with an average of 8 pups per litter. The UK also has the Ship Rat (or Black Rat), but it’s now extremely rare and mostly found in isolated port areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find the answer? Reach out to our customer support team.
How do I know if I have rats?
Common signs include scratching noises, droppings, gnaw marks, damaged food packaging, nests, and a strong unpleasant smel
How quickly can you deal with a rat problem?
We aim to respond quickly across South Yorkshire, with appointments available depending on location and urgency.
How do you remove rats?
We inspect the property, identify access points, apply professional treatment, and advise on steps to help stop rats returning.
Are your rat treatments safe?
Yes. Treatments are placed carefully and professionally, with clear safety advice for homes with children, pets, or vulnerable people.
Can I prevent rats from coming back?
Absolutely. We provide practical prevention advice such as sealing entry points, keeping food waste secure, removing outdoor clutter, and checking drains or gaps where rats may enter.
