Effective Rodent Control: Safeguarding Your Space from Mice and Rats

As pest control experts at Nurture Group’s Pest Solutions division, we understand the critical importance of proactive rodent control. In the UK, rodents, particularly mice and rats, are generally timid and nocturnal, often leading to late-stage infestations before detection. Timely and effective pest control is not only crucial for compliance with legal obligations but also for preventing a range of issues, from hefty fines to reputational damage.

Nurture Group's Pest Control is at the forefront, providing customised solutions for the prevention and extermination of mice and rats. Effective pest control is not just about meeting legal requirements; it's a comprehensive strategy to avoid prosecution under the Food Safety Act 1990, mitigate disease risks to staff and customers, prevent contamination of food and packaging materials, safeguard reputation, and protect buildings and contents from damage.

Mice, while a part of British wildlife, become a cause for concern when they take up residence with you. Active all year round, mice are among the most common pest species in the UK, with various types globally. Recognising the legal obligations, property and landowners must keep premises rodent-free, reporting infestations to local authorities as per the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949. Food business owners also have responsibilities under the Food Safety Act 1990, with non-compliance risking fines, imprisonment, and damage to reputation.

Controlling brown rats and house mice requires a strategic approach. Placing traps without understanding the infestation dynamics, including their feeding habits and activity areas, may result in low capture rates and the persistence of the problem. Identifying and isolating their food sources is key for fast capture, especially considering that rats and mice have distinct dietary requirements. We recommend the placement of traps in voids away from human habitation, such as under floorboards, kitchen cupboard plinths, airing cupboards, and attic spaces for optimal results.

Placement of several traps in different locations is advised for larger infestations, increasing the likelihood of capture. Regular monitoring, topping up of bait, and prompt removal of trapped rodents are essential steps throughout the treatment.

Recognising the two common types of mice in the UK, namely the House mouse (Mus musculus domesticus) and the Field mouse or wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), is crucial for targeted control efforts. Signs of their presence include droppings, ammonia smell, smear marks, nests, damage to stored food, and gnaw marks on various materials.

Effective rodent control goes beyond eliminating immediate threats; it's a proactive measure to secure your space and reputation. Nurture Group's comprehensive rodent control services ensure peace of mind, compliance with regulations, and a pest-free environment.

For more information on our mice and rat rodent control services, visit here.