UK homeowners warned about a rat plague this autumn

Whether they’re inside or outside, rats are known for their ability to cause disruption and costly damage.

The home insurance experts at Tiger have 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.

Rats can reduce the value of a property by up to 20%, with figures potentially reaching up to £53,663 based on average property prices, an expert told The Intermediary.

Since you must legally declare the presence of rats when selling a property, it is best to prevent a problem from occurring where possible rather than acting too late and being met with a huge infestation issue.

How many rats are there in the UK?

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.

Does home insurance cover rat infestations in the UK?

If you have a rat infestation, Kara Gammell, home insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said you might not be covered by your insurance policy.

She said: “Rats may be small, but the damage that they can cause can be huge.

“These pests can chew through almost anything – from floorboards and plasterboard to pipes and electrical wiring – leaving you facing structural issues, burst pipes, or even a fire risk.

“And here’s the sting in the tail: standard home insurance typically won’t cover pest infestations because insurers view it as a maintenance issue rather than a sudden, unforeseen event like a fire or storm.

🐀 Britain’s rats are getting bigger — and so are the rubbish piles feeding them.

Pest controllers say overflowing bins, reduced collections and fly-tipped food waste are helping rats thrive, with some reportedly reaching 16 inches.

When rubbish is left sitting around, it’s not…

— Waste Crime UK (@WasteCrimeUK) September 12, 2026

“That means the cost of removing rats – or repairing the damage they leave behind – will likely come straight out of your own pocket.

“Some insurers do offer home emergency cover as an optional extra, and this can sometimes include pest removal.

“But don’t assume you’re fully protected.

“This type of cover generally won’t pay out for any damage rats cause to your property.

“Outbuildings such as sheds and garages are also often excluded too.

“Taking preventative steps to keep rodents out is far cheaper – and far less stressful – than dealing with an infestation once they’ve moved in.”

Have you ever had a rat problem in your home or garden? Let us know in the comments below.