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Rats or pests near your home: investigating sources and working together
Seeing rats or finding droppings can be worrying. How can you identify the problem and work with neighbours without assuming who is responsible?
Start with identification and prevention. An animal crossing from one garden does not show where it nests or what attracts it. Investigate the wider area.
This guide applies to England.
What traces do you see yourself?
Record the date, location and what you saw: an animal, droppings, gnaw marks, a possible burrow or an opening. Photograph safely and ask a pest professional to identify uncertain signs.
Also describe if there is any damage and whether the animals are seen indoors or outdoors. The request for help can be about a shared storage, a sewer problem or food in multiple gardens. Ask what other sources should be investigated.
Why do the animals come back?
Reduce food, shelter and entry points.
Avoid direct contact with rodents or droppings.
What can you agree on with neighbours?
Investigate without blame
Compare observations and check accessible food, rubbish and possible entry points. Get permission before entering or altering another property.
A calm opening
“I’ve seen a rat along our fence twice this week and noticed signs near the store. Have you seen anything? Could we check food, bins and possible entry points, then ask a professional if needed?”
Arrange tasks and feedback
Agree who checks food and bins, who contacts the manager or pest professional and when to review the findings. Include suspected drain or sewer routes in the inspection request.
What tools and measures can you investigate?
Making food and waste less accessible
Check sealable containers, bags next to a container, and spills of pet or bird food. Ask the expert which source is likely to be relevant in this environment. Don’t stop feeding a pet when it’s necessary; choose a care method that leaves no residue.
Entry points and shelter
Have gaps, pipe openings and storage areas assessed. Appropriate proofing depends on the species and building. Preserve ventilation and avoid trapping animals inside; closing a gap alone may not resolve an infestation.
Professional identification and control
For persistent problems ask the council or a pest professional for an inspection.
Do not use poison without proper advice
Check which pest-control products are authorised locally and follow the label. Keep traps and products away from children and animals. If the problem persists, contact the council or a qualified pest-control professional.
Which rules apply in England?
Ask the council whether it offers pest control. In rented or shared premises, tell the landlord or manager so the source and access points can be checked.
What if the signs return?
Ask for a prevention plan and use a professional if the problem persists. Follow the instructions on any authorised product.
Sources and review date
GOV.UK — Report a pest problem
Guide reviewed on 7 November 2026.
Keep the next step manageable
Use the free incident diary for a few representative observations, any agreement and improvements. If you need outside help, see Who can help. State what happened, what you have tried and what you are asking the recipient to do. You do not have to keep approaching the neighbour if contact feels unsafe.
Would you like to write to your neighbours?
On the situation page you can see the CalmNotes bundle, its contents and the other support options.