Why Are There More Rats in London in Summer?
Rats are extremely common, especially in densely populated areas such as Central London. There are an estimated 2 rats for every 1 person in places like Central London and possibly more in warmer months.
As temperatures rise, so do breeding rates amongst the rat population. Many residents and business owners find themselves asking, “Why am I having more rat problems than usual?” The answer lies in a combination of environmental changes and urban habits, which Rats are extremely sensitive to.
Why Summer Increases Rat Activity
- Open Bin Areas & Waste Overflow With longer days and warmer evenings, more people dine outdoors, and waste bins overflow quicker. Leftover food, takeaway containers, and missed rubbish collections provide a feast for urban rodents.
- Increased Restaurant Footfall Central London’s pubs, restaurants and food markets experience a seasonal boom. Rats are opportunistic and thrive in areas with high footfall and poor waste management. If your business produces food waste and has inconsistent pest control, you’re a prime target. But, anywhere with food, shelter and water are ideal spots for rats to nest and raise their young.
- Disrupted Nests from Construction Work Ongoing urban developments often disturb rat burrows, forcing them above ground or into new hiding spots in residential and commercial properties. London’s constant cycle of renovation inadvertently contributes to the problem.
Signs of a Rat Problem in Summer
- Droppings near bins or along walls
- Scratching noises under floorboards or behind cupboards
- ‘Smear’ marks along skirting boards and surfaces, indicating rat activity
- Damaged food packaging or gnawed materials
Expert Tips to Keep Rats Away
- Secure all bin lids and schedule regular rubbish removal.
- Seal gaps under doors, around pipes, and in building foundations.
- Avoid feeding birds or pets outdoors in rat-prone areas.
- Proper waste management. Don’t let your rubbish build up and keep bins, lids and surrounding areas clean and tidy.
Concerned About Rats in Your Property?
Don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Obsidian Environmental’s rodent specialists are trained to tackle even the most persistent infestations. We use environmentally safe, targeted treatments tailored to your property and business, operating professionally throughout Central London.
Contact our team today for a free consultation with one of our pest specialists or book a rapid callout visit now.
