Caution issued to homeowners and businesses as threat of rats on the rise

Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, has recorded a 29% increase in the reporting of rats nationally in January of this year compared to callouts in January 2023.

The company has issued a caution to homeowners and businesses against the prevalent threat of rats.

Notably, Cork witnessed the most pronounced increase during this period, with a 50% increase in rat-related callouts in January 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Similarly, the Northwest region and Dublin experienced increases of 33% and 32%, respectively, during the same period.

Rats pose a significant threat to both residential and commercial properties, being widely acknowledged as the country’s primary pest concern.

Rentokil emphasises the importance of implementing rodent-proofing solutions to prevent these creatures from infiltrating premises. Among the recommended solutions is Rentokil’s Flexi Armour, a robust method utilising durable materials like Kevlar and knitted steel mesh to create impenetrable barriers against rats.

Rats are the top pest threat that premises and businesses need to be aware of due to the significant damage they can cause to properties and assets.

Rats spend extended periods every day grinding down their teeth on surrounding objects, and as a result, they can chew through utility lines, electrical wires, and other key infrastructure. Signs of rat activity to be aware of include droppings, scratching noises, and footprints.

The presence of rats in a business also poses a serious reputational risk, as well as a health risk due to the potential spread of diseases through their bodily fluids and excrement.

Colm Moore, Area Technical Manager for Rentokil said: 

“Rentokil is encouraging home and business owners to be mindful of the presence of rats in their premises after a 29% increase in rat callouts nationwide was observed. 

“Members of the public can find out more about the signs of a rat infestation as well as how to discourage their presence by visiting the Rentokil website.

“Both homeowners and businesses must remain vigilant against the threat posed by rats. Implementing effective rodent-proofing solutions like Rentokil's Flexi Armour is crucial in safeguarding properties against these persistent pests.”