Rodents & renters: how to stop pests coming into rental properties

Landlords have a duty of care to keep buy-to-lets in a fit and habitable state, as detailed in the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Housing Act 2004. Responsibilities include preventing mice and rats from entering the property and addressing an infestation that is a result of sub-standard living conditions.

Why are rodents active in autumn and winter?

Like you, rodents prefer a warm, dry and welcoming place to call home when the temperature drops. Rats and mice will naturally seek shelter and a residential property is very appealing. The matter is often compounded when a rodent’s usual food source is in short supply, so they’ll use their exceptional sense of smell to root out some tasty human treats.

How do rodents get into a property?

Mice and rats can squeeze through the tiniest of gaps and cracks - as small as 6mm in some cases. You may find this type of gap around pipes, cables, vents and utility lines coming into a property. Rodents will also scramble up foliage to gain access at a higher level, so damaged soffits and fascias are also common entry points. Don’t forget, rodents will chew a small hole to make it big enough to slip through, while rats can swim.

What damage can mice and rats cause?

These small animals can create big problems if unchecked. Their gnawing ability is legendary – they will chew anything in their path to gain access and create bedding. This includes furniture, wood and cables. The latter is a significant issue as damaged wires pose an electrical safety and fire risk. Mice will also destroy loft insulation by burrowing deep, while pest exterminators have found rodents nesting in large electrical appliances, rendering them unsafe to use.

Potential for prosecution

Rodents will also contaminate areas by leaving a trail of droppings, urine, saliva and hair. If a tenant is exposed to this, they may contract a severe or potentially fatal disease such as hantavirus, Leptospirosis and salmonellosis. If this happens and they can prove a landlord has been negligent, they may have a strong case to sue, citing a breach of the tenancy agreement, negligence or a breach of one of several Acts designed to promote safe living environments.

How to spot if you have a rodent infestation 

• Small, dark droppings, around 3mm to 6mm, left in kitchens, cellars, larders, pantries and cupboards where food is stored. Droppings may also be left on beams/struts in lofts and attics.

•  Gnaw marks that present as rough edges, scrapes, rips or puncture wounds, often in a circular or half-moon pattern.

• Dark brown, grey or black smudge-like stains left along the most commonly used entrance and exit points. These ‘rub marks’ are a build-up of a rodent’s natural oil and dirt. 

• Holes and evidence of dirt excavation near to external walls are frequently a sign of rats. They are expert diggers and they will burrow to gain access to a property.

• Piles of shredded material, such as cardboard, paper and loft insulation, is a typical rat or mice nest, especially if found in lofts, attics, under eaves and in cavity walls. 

8 ways to stop rodents entering a property

1. Fill cracks in walls and floors

2. Replace missing roof tiles

3. Fix broken vents and air bricks 

4. Cap unused pipes and drains

5. Fill gaps around external doors and windows

6. Repair damaged soffits and fascias

7. Fill gaps around pipes and cables that enter the property 

8. Keep vegetation cut back from a property’s external walls

Advice for tenants

Tenants also have a role to play in preventing a rodent infestation. A landlord or their property manager should always pass on the following advice:

• Remove or cover uneaten pet food

• Keep all edibles in airtight containers

• Clear away crumbs and spills promptly

• Don’t leave food uncovered on surfaces

• Take rubbish out frequently

• Ensure bin lids fit tightly

• Don’t let old newspapers build up

If you have any concerns about rodents in a property you own or live in, please don’t hesitate in contacting us.