Rats can be a huge problem in commercial buildings. They cause a lot of damage to cables and other fixtures and fittings. They can also spread disease via urine, faeces, and dirt. Even the air in commercial buildings becomes contaminated when there is a rat infestation.
Commercial businesses must take steps to prevent and eradicate pests like rats. Once rodents find a way in, they will quickly reproduce. In just 12 months, two rats multiply to become 1,250 rats, at which point you can’t fail to spot there is a problem.
How Do Rats Get into Commercial Buildings?
In a domestic setting, rats are more likely to nest outdoors, typically under sheds or decking, because homes are well-built with sturdy structures and there are fewer access points. Commercial buildings are different. While some are made from bricks and mortar, many are constructed from steel and cladding. This means there are many more viable entry points. In addition, rats are capable of gnawing through all kinds of materials, including concrete and metal.
To prevent a rat problem, it’s important to work out possible entry points. Look for small holes where cables and pipes enter the building. If there are gaps around pipes, rodents can squeeze through. There are often weak points where air-conditioning ducts pass through walls. Another possible weak point is where the finishing around structural beams is poor. There may be small gaps that have been missed when the building was constructed.
Rat Infestation Signs to Look Out For
Rat droppings are a sure-fire sign that you have rats in residence. Rats produce a lot of faeces in 24 hours, so with dozens of rats, the droppings soon pile up.
Rat corridors are pathways where rats move between different areas. They follow odours left by other rats. When it’s a busy rat run, there will be black, greasy trails along walls and pipes.
Look for signs that rats have been gnawing at pipes and other parts of the structure.
There will be a distinctive smell if you have a rat infestation. Rats produce a lot of urine, so if you can smell ammonia, it’s probably rodents.
Rats make a lot of noise. If it’s quiet, especially during night shifts, your employees may hear sounds from above ceilings or below the floor.
You may also spot live rats. Or even dead ones.
How to Treat a Rat Infestation
There are DIY rat traps available, but in a commercial premises, it is best to call in a pest control expert, like a commercial pest control London company. They’ll look for access points and advise you on how to prevent rats from coming back once the problem has been eradicated. Things like metal mesh along the edge of a structure will prevent rats from accessing a building.
Have a Pest Control Plan in Place
Don’t leave things to chance. Have a pest control plan in place so you don’t encourage rats or mice. Make sure employees keep the place tidy and don’t leave food waste lying around, as rats are attracted by heat and food.