Rodent issues are more than just a nuisance — they can cause serious damage to drains, pipework, and properties. Rats and mice often enter homes and businesses through damaged drains, broken pipes, or faulty connections, using the drainage system as a hidden access route.
If left untreated, rodent activity can lead to structural damage, health risks, foul smells, and repeated infestations. Early identification and professional intervention are essential.
Rodents naturally seek warmth, shelter, food, and water. Drainage systems provide all four, making them a common entry point.
Rodents are attracted to drains because:
Underground pipes provide shelter and protection
Broken or cracked drains allow easy access
Waste food particles attract rodents
Warm properties offer nesting opportunities
Older drainage systems often have weak points
Once inside the drainage system, rodents can travel freely and enter properties through toilets, pipe joints, or damaged connections.
You may have a rodent/Rats issue if you notice:
Scratching or gnawing sounds in walls or floors
Unpleasant smells coming from drains
Slow-draining or frequently blocked drains
Damage to pipes, insulation, or wiring
Droppings around inspection chambers or waste areas
Rodents seen near drains or manholes
Ignoring these warning signs often allows the problem to worsen.
Rodents have strong teeth that grow continuously, forcing them to gnaw on hard surfaces. As a result, they can cause significant damage to drainage systems.
Rodent-related damage often includes:
Cracked or broken drain pipes
Dislodged joints and connections
Collapsed sections of drainage
Entry points into walls and floors
Repeated blockages caused by nesting materials
Even small drain defects can become major access points if rodents exploit them.
Rodents pose serious health risks to humans and animals. They can carry and spread diseases through urine, droppings, and contaminated surfaces.
Health risks include:
Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease)
Salmonella contamination
Allergies and respiratory issues
Parasites such as fleas and mites
For homes and businesses, especially food premises, rodent issues can also lead to legal and compliance problems.
A CCTV drain survey is the most effective way to identify rodent access points. It allows professionals to inspect pipes internally and locate:
Cracks and fractures
Open joints and gaps
Collapsed or displaced pipe sections
Evidence of rodent activity
This inspection helps determine how rodents entered the system and what repairs are required.
Once identified, professionals can apply long-term solutions, including:
Drain repairs or relining to seal entry points
Localised drain patching
Installation of rat blockers or non-return valves
Replacement of damaged pipe sections
Ongoing drainage maintenance
Simply removing rodents without fixing drain defects often results in repeat infestations.
DIY solutions and pest control alone do not address the root cause of rodent issues when drains are involved. Only professional drainage repairs permanently remove access points and prevent re-entry.
Professional intervention:
Stops rodents entering through drains
Prevents repeat infestations
Protects property structure
Reduces health risks
Saves money on ongoing pest treatments
Rodent problems affect:
Houses and flats
Landlords and rental properties
Restaurants and food outlets
Offices and retail premises
Industrial and public buildings
Any property with drainage can be at risk — especially older systems or poorly maintained pipework.
If you suspect rodents are entering through your drains, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Early inspection and repair can prevent costly problems and health risks.
📞 Call today to discuss rodent drainage issues 01206 654 144
📩 Contact us for a CCTV drain survey or expert advice
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