The Ipswich Borough Council no longer provides pest control services. If you encounter issues with pests such as mice, rats, or others at your property, please contact a local pest control contractor. Note that contractors will typically charge for call-out services and any pest eradication work performed.
What is Vermin?
"Vermin" is a term used to describe various pests that can be troublesome or harmful. This includes:
- Rats: Often referred to as vermin due to their potential to spread diseases and cause damage.
- Mice: Similar to rats, mice can invade homes and businesses, causing damage and health risks.
- Cockroaches: These insects are unhygienic and can spread diseases.
- Squirrels: Considered vermin when they invade attics or gardens.
- Other pests: This can include fleas, bedbugs, and some birds that may cause problems.
Understanding the life of rats
Rats are commonly found in areas that offer:
- Food: Such as general waste.
- Water: Any source of moisture.
- Shelter: Including places like roof spaces, wall cavities, or under floorboards.
Rats tend to be seasonal visitors and will be more active during the winter whilst seeking warm shelter. Outside of a property a rat will burrow into grassy banks or under sheds, rat holes beside solid structures are sure signs of a nest. Excessively overgrown grass / waste land can also provide harbourage conditions.
Brown rats are also often found living in sewer systems and will use sewer systems to access other locations unobstructed and undetected. Sewers and drains can also give rats access to a property through open or faulty drains.
Signs of rats
You may notice signs of a rat infestation, including:
- Droppings: Rat faeces found in the area.
- Gnawing Marks: On cables, wood, plastic, brick, and lead pipes.
- Torn Bags: Foodstuff or materials may be ripped apart.
- Burrows: Holes in grassy banks or other areas.
- Footprints or Tail Marks: In dusty or unused areas.
Health risks
Rats pose significant health risks as they mark their territory with urine, which can spread diseases to humans. These diseases are typically spread through contact with urine or contaminated food preparation areas.
Preventing vermin
- Seal up holes inside and outside the property to prevent entry by rodents.
- Introduce traps and bait.
- Ensure areas area kept clean and clear; that all general waste and soft furnishings are disposed of correctly.
- Ensure bird feeding is done responsibly.
- Cut back overgrown vegetation.