Rat Drains are one of the least obvious ways rats get into a building, which is exactly why they cause so many problems. Rats are strong swimmers and can travel through sewer pipes, entering a property through damaged drains, broken gully covers or old, unused pipework connected to the main system.
In Newmarket, as in most towns, ageing drainage infrastructure alongside newer development means the condition of pipework varies a lot from property to property, and a small defect below ground can go unnoticed for a long time.
How Rats Use Drains to Get Indoors
Rats can enter a drainage system at a damaged manhole, a broken pipe joint or a gully with a missing or ill-fitting cover, then travel along the network until they find a weak point, such as a cracked pipe under a building or an unused drain connection inside. From there, they can find their way into cavities, under floors or directly into a property.
- Rat activity that seems to appear without any obvious entry point above ground
- Droppings or gnaw marks near internal drain access points, such as under floors
- Damaged or displaced drain covers outside
- Rats seen near manholes or gullies, particularly after rain
- Recurring rat problems despite sealing doors, windows and airbricks
What Can Be Done
A CCTV drain survey can confirm whether drains are the entry route, identifying cracks, broken joints or defective covers that need repair. Alongside this, professional rat treatment deals with any rats already inside, using baiting, trapping and monitoring as appropriate. Rat-proofing advice covers both above-ground entry points and the steps needed to make drains more secure, such as one-way valves in some cases.
Getting a Proper Assessment
If you suspect rats are entering a Newmarket property through drains, it is worth having a full inspection rather than guessing. Green Pest Control assesses the whole property, not just the obvious signs, and offers a free, no-obligation quotation for rat control. Call 01502 630 122 to arrange a visit.
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