When Ground Up Property Group got the call about a suspected rat problem affecting a small row of homes, we knew this wasn’t going to be a quick fix. Rat infestations can be tricky — especially when access is limited and pets are on site — but we rolled up our sleeves and got to work.
The Call-Out
We were asked to investigate a cluster of neighbouring properties after residents reported signs of rat activity around their homes. Our first step? A full site investigation and environmental risk assessment to understand the scale of the problem.
We quickly confirmed what the residents suspected: there was clear evidence of rat activity. Droppings, gnawing marks, and disturbed bins showed the rodents had been active for some time.
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Two properties showed clear signs of infestation, and traps were placed accordingly.
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A third property could not be accessed as the resident was out (Property Managers, will understand how difficult it is to pin them down!). However, we continued with our external observations, which suggested this was the root cause of the issue.
Bins at this property were chewed through and overflowing, creating a perfect food source for the rats and attracting them into the surrounding area.
What We Did
Waste Clearance
Our team helped clear away accessible waste to reduce food sources. Unfortunately, we were unable to secure agreement from the tenant of the problem property, meaning not all waste could be properly managed. Ongoing missed bin collections were also contributing to overspill, giving the rats a consistent food supply.
Trapping Instead of Poison
Due to the presence of small dogs, poison could not be safely used. Instead, we opted for a trapping programme, setting up traps within the affected properties.
We established a regular monitoring schedule, returning every other day to check, clear, and reset traps as needed.
Finding the Way In
While on site, we carried out a full inspection and successfully identified and blocked the main entry points being used by the rats. This proofing work helps stop new rodents entering and is a vital part of long-term control.
Other Risk Factors
We also noted potential harbourage under a shed and ongoing access to food waste at the problem property. Without full cooperation from the tenant, these issues remain a challenge.
Environmental & Safety Check
We take environmental safety seriously.
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No signs of non-target species were found
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The site is not within a designated sensitive area
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The infestation does pose a risk to human and animal health, so prompt action is required
All control measures were selected to be both effective and environmentally responsible.
The Plan Moving Forward
With traps in place and entry points blocked, our plan is to stay on top of the situation:
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Return every other day to maintain traps and remove any captures.
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Keep monitoring activity levels.
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Continue engaging with the tenants to improve waste management and proofing.
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Work with local services where necessary to ensure regular waste collection.
What We’ve Learned
This case is a strong reminder that good waste management is key to controlling rodent issues. Even the best traps and proofing won’t be effective if rats still have easy access to food. It also highlights how essential tenant cooperation is to achieving lasting results.
At Ground Up, we don’t just treat the symptoms — we tackle the root cause. Through investigation, clean-up, trapping, and ongoing monitoring, we’re ensuring this infestation is brought under control in the most responsible way possible.
