“Stronger rodenticides can be more effective, but most are subject to strict legislation and must only be used by professional pest controllers .”
The BPCA said reports of rats resistant to poison have increased over recent years and it is predicted there will be a further surge in the winter months as they enter homes for warmth and food.
Mr Forrester added: “There’s less natural food around during colder weather so the population of rodents in and around homes and business premises could swell at an alarming rate as we head into winter.”
Rats can squeeze themselves through gaps as small as three-quarters of an inch and are often found living under floorboards, in the walls or in the loft.
To prevent rodents from entering homes, occupants are encouraged to fit strips to the bottoms of doors, fill small gaps in exterior walls, repair roof damage and cover drains to prevent entry via pipes.
