Homeowners are being warned about a simple kitchen mistake they could be making that’s attracting rats.
It’s not a secret that rodents love to find food but one habit could mean you’re openly inviting them to your property.
Waste experts at Wheeldon Brothers are urging homeowners to avoid leaving food waste loose inside outdoor bins, warning that even small amounts of exposed waste can attract rodents.
It comes after the UK was warned about a potential rat “plague” this autumn following high temperatures in summer.
James Ward, waste expert at Wheeldon Brothers, said: “As temperatures begin to cool, rats naturally start looking for dependable food sources that will help them through the autumn and winter months.
“One of the biggest mistakes people make is throwing loose food waste into their outdoor bin without properly bagging it or ensuring the lid is fully closed.
“Food scraps, leftovers and even small spills inside a wheelie bin can produce strong smells that attract rodents from surprisingly long distances.
“Once rats identify a reliable food source, they're likely to return repeatedly.
“In some cases, they may even begin nesting nearby if they have access to shelter as well.
“Taking a few extra seconds to bag food waste properly and keeping your bin lid firmly shut can make your property much less appealing.”
To keep rats away, homeowners should also make sure their bins do not overflow and that they are not damaged.
No food waste should be left next to bins as this can attract rats too.
If you’re disposing of food containers, make sure you give them a rinse and clean your bins regularly to remove food residue, Wheeldon Brothers said.
Ward added: “It's often the little habits that make the biggest difference.
Rats will be looking for shelter and food as the temperatures drop (Image: Getty)
“Keeping bins clean, avoiding overflowing rubbish and making sure lids close properly can all help reduce the chances of attracting unwanted visitors.
“If you've noticed signs of rats in your area, it's worth being extra vigilant as the seasons change.
“Preventing access to food is one of the most effective ways to discourage rodents from hanging around your home in the first place.”
Rat 'plague' warning issued for autumn
UK homeowners are being warned about a rat "plague" following a warm summer with record-breaking temperatures.
It comes as home insurance experts at Tiger urged property owners to remain vigilant against the pests and follow important steps now to prevent an infestation before the autumn weather drives rodents indoors.
It is then that rats will be looking for warm and dry spots to settle in during the cooler months, and with the summer bringing record-breaking temperatures, there were ideal opportunities for breeding.
It is estimated that there are between 10.5 and 120 million rats in the UK, says the British Pest Control Association (BPCA).
So, it's important that homeowners know what to watch out for, especially since an increase in rat numbers, also described as a "plague" by the experts at Tiger, is expected.
If you’re moving house soon, it’s worth knowing that you must declare a rat infestation if you have one before selling your property.
Have you seen any rats near where you live so far this autumn? Let us know in the comments below.