Rat Control in Lancashire and Greater Manchester

Rats are one of the most common — and problematic — pests in the UK. Whether in homes, gardens, restaurants, or warehouses, a rat infestation can cause serious damage and pose health risks if left untreated.

At Ian Smith Pest Control, I provide fast, discreet, and effective rat removal services across Lancashire and Greater Manchester. If you’re searching for a trusted “rat exterminator near me,” I’m just a phone call away.

Fast Response Rat Exterminator Services

As a local rat exterminator, I understand how urgent rat problems can be. That’s why I offer:

• Emergency 7-day callouts for homes and businesses

• Advice and installation of rat-proofing solutions

• Quarterly, 6-month, or annual prevention contracts for ongoing protection

• The option to arrive in an unmarked vehicle for discreet pest control

Whether you’ve spotted a rat in your home or need immediate help at your business, I’ll respond as quickly as possible and take the right action to solve the issue.

Common Signs of a Rat Infestation

You might have a rat infestation if you notice:

• Scratching noises in walls, lofts, or under floorboards

• Droppings around skirting boards, cupboards, or food storage

• Gnawed cables, wood, or pipes

• An ammonia-like smell in enclosed spaces

• Visible rats — particularly in the early morning or evening

Don’t ignore the signs. Rats can breed rapidly and a small problem can quickly get out of hand. If you’ve searched for rat removal near me, I’m ready to help.

Expert Rat Removal Near Me

I’ve handled rat removal in all kinds of settings — from urban flats to large warehouses. Every infestation is different, and I always start with a full survey to identify access points, nesting areas, and the size of the colony.

I use professional baiting systems, traps, and proofing methods tailored to your specific environment. My goal is not just to remove rats, but to stop them coming back.

Understanding Rat Behaviour and Risks

The brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) is the most common species in the UK. Despite the saying that “you’re never more than six feet from a rat,” you may never see one — until it’s too late.

Rats are highly adaptable, excellent climbers, and can chew through wood, insulation, wiring, and even soft metals like lead and aluminium. This gnawing can lead to electrical fires, water leaks, and serious structural damage.

They’re mostly nocturnal but are often seen in daylight — especially around bird feeders or compost bins. Feeding garden birds can unknowingly encourage rats into your garden and home.

The Reproductive Cycle and Growth of Infestations

A female rat can breed as young as 4 months old and produce litters of 6–12 pups. With multiple breeding cycles per year, it doesn’t take long for a small problem to become a large rat infestation.

Rats are also neophobic — meaning they fear new objects in their environment. This behaviour makes them cautious and difficult to trap using DIY methods.

They groom constantly, even when under stress, and can survive on a wide range of food sources, making them incredibly persistent pests.

Health Risks Associated with Rats

Rats pose a serious health risk to people, pets, and livestock. They can carry:

• Weil’s Disease (Leptospirosis) – transmitted through rat urine; can be fatal

• Salmonella and E. coli – found in droppings and contaminated surfaces

• Rat bite fever – spread via bites, scratches, or contact with infected rats

Rat infestations must be dealt with professionally to reduce the risk of illness and prevent further contamination of your home or workplace.

Call Your Local Rat Exterminator Today

Searching for “rat removal near me”? Need help with a persistent rat infestation? We’re here to help. We provide safe, fast, and cost-effective rat exterminator services across the North West. An emergency response service is also available, if required.

Call Ian Smith Pest Control on 07821 318954 or send us a message. We are happy to give advice without any obligation.