Barnard Environmental provides professional rat control services across Kent, helping homeowners, landlords and property managers eliminate rat infestations safely and effectively.

Rats are one of the most serious pest problems found in UK properties. They can spread bacteria, contaminate food and cause significant structural damage by gnawing through insulation, wiring and building materials.

Once rats enter a property, infestations can quickly grow if not addressed early. Our technicians provide structured rat inspection and treatment services designed to eliminate infestations and prevent future rodent problems.

Two rat species are found in the UK.

• Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) – the most common rat species

• Black rat (Rattus rattus) – much rarer in the UK

Brown rats are highly adaptable and often live in drains, gardens and buildings.

Common signs of rat activity include:

• Rat droppings in cupboards, lofts or along walls

• Scratching or gnawing noises in walls or ceilings, particularly at night

• Grease marks along walls or skirting boards

• Burrows in soil around buildings

• Gnaw marks on wood, cables or food packaging

• Nesting materials such as shredded paper or insulation

If any of these signs are present, professional pest control is recommended.

Rat infestations can create serious issues for homes and businesses.

Common problems include:

• contamination of food and surfaces

• spread of bacteria through droppings and urine

• damage to electrical wiring and insulation

• unpleasant odours

• structural damage caused by gnawing

Rats also reproduce quickly, allowing infestations to grow rapidly if left untreated.

Rats often nest in areas that provide warmth, shelter and access to food.

Common locations include:

• loft spaces

• wall cavities

• kitchens and cupboards

• basements or cellars

• gardens and outdoor areas

• drains and sewer systems

Loft spaces and drain systems are particularly common locations for rat infestations.

Rats can enter properties through surprisingly small openings.

Common entry points include:

• gaps around pipes

• damaged air vents

• gaps beneath doors

• broken roof tiles

• cracks in walls or foundations

• damaged drainage systems

Rats can squeeze through gaps as small as 20mm.

Our pest control technicians follow a structured approach.

Inspection

We identify rat activity and entry points by carrying out a thorough inspection of the inside and outside of your property including drains if required.

Treatment

Our technicians will talk you through the best course of action for your rat problem and carry out a baiting or trapping programme to successfully target the issue.  

Prevention

We will then provide advice on proofing properties against future infestations, which can be carried out us.  

Decontamination

Please visit our Rodent Decontamination page for more information on this service.

Rat infestations are commonly found in:

• rental properties

• void properties

• commercial premises

• older buildings

• properties near drainage systems

Barnard Environmental regularly supports landlords and letting agents across Kent requiring rat control and environmental recovery services.

Loft spaces are one of the most common places where rats nest.

Rats may:

• contaminate insulation

• create nesting areas in roof spaces

• chew electrical wiring

• spread contamination throughout loft areas

In some cases, rodent contamination cleaning may also be required after infestations.

Barnard Environmental provides professional rat control services across Kent, supporting homeowners and property professionals.

Our services are available in areas including:

• Maidstone

• Dartford

• Gravesend

• Sevenoaks

• Tunbridge Wells

• Ashford

• Canterbury