Overview
- Rentokil reports a 10% year-on-year rise in confirmed rat activity across the UK over the past year.
- Northern Ireland shows the largest increase at 26%, followed by Yorkshire at 20%, north-west England at 19%, the West Midlands at 16% and Scotland at 14%.
- Persistent rainfall has flooded burrow systems and drainage networks, pushing rats to seek higher, drier shelter inside buildings.
- Warmer conditions in 2025 likely extended rats’ breeding season, contributing to larger populations heading into this year.
- Rentokil cautions that ongoing wet weather may drive further infestations and advises sealing entry points, managing waste and calling professionals if problems escalate.