We’ve all heard the claim that we’re only ever six feet from a rat. And while it’s improbable that one will pop up in your toilet bowl, a rat infestation in your drains can be a genuine issue.
Experts are concerned about the staggering size of the UK’s rat population, which could exceed 300 million, with 618 infestations reported daily. These alarming statistics raise the question: what lures rats to sewers and why is this such a significant issue?
Sewer Rats and Domestic Drains
Sewers provide the ideal environment for rats. They’re predator-free, with wastewater and food on tap. The maze of darkened tunnels is the perfect place for nocturnal rats to breed and expand their colonies.
So, what drives brown rats into the domestic drain system? Disruption, food shortages and population explosion can all force displaced rats to seek shelter elsewhere. Domestic drains offer a supply of warm wastewater and food, creating ideal breeding conditions. If you think rats have made it into your drains, a CCTV drain survey in Nottingham can determine whether an infestation is present so you can plan your next steps.
The Telltale Signs of Rats in Drains
The good news is you can get proactive. Be vigilant and spot the signs early. Look out for rice-like rat droppings and holes near your drains or walls. Chewed cables and woodwork, slow-draining wastewater and scratching sounds are all telltale signs that you have a rat infestation.
As soon as you suspect an infestation, book a CCTV drain survey Nottingham with a professional operator like www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-nottingham to establish how the rats are accessing your drains.
Early detection is critical. If rats enter your drainage system, it’s often not long before they invade your garden and property. Once they start tunnelling to the surface, they make short work of getting into your wall cavities and roof, causing damage to timbers and cables and spreading bacteria like salmonella and listeria. Fortunately, a CCTV drain survey in Nottingham can help you take control and take steps to eliminate the problem.
