As temperatures drop and natural food sources become scarce, rats begin moving indoors and once they’ve found a way in, they’re unlikely to leave on their own. Early winter is ‘peak season’ for rodent activity, making now the ideal time to review your property for weaknesses and put proper rat-proofing in place.
We’re receiving a sharp rise in callouts related to rodent sightings, noises in lofts, and signs of infestation in both homes and businesses and in most cases, the root cause isn’t just food or warmth, it’s access.
Why Rodent Proofing Matters
Rats are opportunistic and can exploit the smallest of gaps. Entry points the size of a 50p coin, around pipework, under doors, or in broken brickwork, are all they need to gain access to lofts, kitchens, garages, and even wall cavities.
Once inside, they can:
- Chew through wires, insulation, and pipework
- Contaminate surfaces with urine and droppings
- Create nests in lofts, basements, or voids
- Breed quickly, making small issues escalate fast
Proofing is the most effective way to stop rats getting in and will prevent the need for repeated treatments.
“I Haven’t Felt Abandoned Like I Did Before”
One of our recent customers had previously used another provider to treat a rat problem but the infestation returned. After contacting ASW, she shared this review:
“Simon came out very quickly and did a thorough inspection, which the other company had not done. He placed poison in my loft and another place and said he would be back in a couple of weeks to check the situation. He would also be back a third time. I was so grateful for this — I haven’t felt abandoned like I did before. I would 100% recommend ASW, they are so knowledgeable and professional.”
This is exactly why we believe so strongly in inspection, follow-up, and long-term prevention, not just reactive treatment.
What Proper Rat Proofing Involves
Every property is different, but typical proofing work may include:
- Sealing holes around external pipework or vents
- Installing brush strips on external doors
- Fixing broken air bricks or drainage access points
- Blocking entry under decking, sheds or garages
- Fitting Ratflap devices in drains and sewers
At ASW, we don’t just treat the symptoms, we locate the source of the problem and ensure rats can’t come back.
Homes, Farms, and Commercial Sites
Whether it’s a domestic property or a commercial premises, rodents bring serious risk from contamination and reputational damage, to failed hygiene audits and costly repairs.
We provide:
- One-off proofing and treatment plans for homeowners
- Scheduled rodent control and prevention for commercial sites
- Drain surveys and Ratflap installations
- Clear, professional documentation for businesses and landlords
Book a Winter Check Before Problems Start
The best time to rat-proof your property is before the coldest months set in, when rats are still scouting for shelter. Early action reduces the risk of infestation, damage, and costly disruption.
Call us on 01249 447377
Or contact us online to book your rodent proofing inspection.
