Rats
It is your responsibility to keep your property free from rats. Rats can damage buildings and carry diseases, so it is important to keep them away.
Preventing rats
To help keep your property free from rats, you should:
- put rubbish in bins with lids that close
- check drains and fix any damage
- feed birds on tables or hanging nets, and pick up fallen food every day
- not feed foxes or leave food outside for wild animals
- take pet bowls away after pets eat and wash them
- clean under pet cages and keep cages off the ground
- not put meat or cooked food in compost bins
- close gaps in sheds and other buildings so animals cannot get in
- keep your garden tidy and remove rubbish that could be used as shelter
If your bin is too small or it is broken, you can request a new or replacement bin.
Removing rats from your property
If you have a rat problem, call a British Pest Control Association pest control expert. They should lay bait and remove the rats.
Once they have removed the rats, they should give you a report to explain:
- what the problem is
- where the rats came from
- what they have done to remove them
Rats in a neighbouring property
If you have rats due to a problem in a neighbouring property, you can report it to us by calling our Customer Services Team on 01622 602 202.
Alternatively, you can email communityprotection@maidstone.gov.uk
We will aim to respond to reports within five working days. This may take longer during busy times.