The GEM Guide to Rats in Ashford and Kent
Rats are one of the most damaging and unhygienic pests found in the UK. Known for spreading disease, contaminating food, and gnawing through property, they pose a serious risk to homes and businesses alike. GEM Services, based in Ashford and serving all of Kent, provides fast, discreet and fully insured rat control solutions for both residential and commercial clients.
What Are Rats?
There are two main species of rat in the UK:
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Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus) – the most common, also known as the Norway rat.
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Black Rat (Rattus rattus) – less common but still present in some port areas.
Key facts:
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Brown rats can grow up to 40cm including the tail.
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Rats breed quickly, with litters every few weeks.
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They are intelligent and highly adaptable, thriving in both urban and rural settings.
Why Are Rats a Problem?
Rats are considered a major public health pest because they:
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Spread disease such as leptospirosis (Weil’s disease), salmonella and hantavirus.
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Contaminate food and surfaces with urine and droppings.
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Cause damage by gnawing wood, wires, pipes and packaging.
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Create reputational risks for businesses, especially in hospitality and food industries.
Signs of a Rat Infestation
Spotting rat activity early helps prevent major infestations. Look out for:
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Droppings (dark, spindle-shaped, around 1–2cm).
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Gnaw marks on wood, cables and packaging.
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Greasy smear marks along walls and skirting boards.
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Scratching or scurrying noises, especially at night.
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Burrows in gardens or near outbuildings.
How to Prevent Rats
Good hygiene and proofing measures can reduce the risk of rats:
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Keep bins closed and waste areas clean.
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Seal holes around pipes, vents and drains.
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Store food securely and clear away spillages quickly.
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Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight.
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Maintain gardens to reduce hiding places.
Professional Rat Control in Ashford & Kent
Rats are resilient and clever, making DIY control methods unreliable. Store-bought poisons and traps may not tackle the root of the infestation.
At GEM Services:
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We offer same-day call-outs where possible.
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Our treatments are effective and discreet.
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We’re fully insured and trusted across Kent.
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We provide honest advice on prevention and long-term control.
If you think you have a rat problem, contact GEM Services today.
Related Pest Guides
Looking for more pest advice? Explore our other guides below:
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Wasp Information in Ashford and Kent – Learn about wasps, their risks, and how to spot a nest.
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Mole Information in Ashford and Kent – Find out how moles damage lawns and gardens, and how to manage them.
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Bird Information in Ashford and Kent – Discover how birds become pests and effective deterrent methods.
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Fly Information in Ashford and Kent – Understand fly infestations, their health risks, and how to prevent them.