Rats and other pests are becoming a growing challenge across UK housing estates. Their presence affects public health, resident wellbeing and confidence in local services. The root causes often go far beyond pest treatments alone and effective infrastructure is key to tackling the problem.
Three reasons why infestations are rising:
1. Ageing infrastructure
Much of the UK’s social housing stock was built between the 1950s and 70s, long before current waste volumes and recycling demands. Many bin areas remain open or poorly maintained, making it easy for rodents to access food and shelter.
2. Warmer winters
Studies show that as temperatures rise, rat populations grow faster and survive longer. Milder winters in the UK mean year-round breeding and fewer natural die-offs, turning what was once a seasonal issue into a constant one.
3. Changing living patterns
The shift to home working since COVID-19 has increased household waste while reducing commercial waste in certain areas. The British Pest Control Associationreports that over 70% of pest controllers experienced an increase in calls for rats since March 2020. More food packaging and delivery waste is now stored in communal areas, where older infrastructure struggles to cope.
Three ways to tackle the problem:
1. Secure waste containment
The most effective long-term solution is cutting off access to food. Rodent-proof bin housings such as metroSTOR units prevent scavenging and conceal waste from view, supporting both hygiene and estate appearance.
2. Coordinated management
Successful pest control depends on collaboration between housing, waste and environmental health teams. Data-led monitoring and shared accountability help identify root causes and prevent recurring hotspots.
3. Resident engagement
Education and communication are vital. Helping residents understand how and where to store waste correctly reduces contamination, encourages recycling and builds a sense of shared responsibility for estate upkeep.
Learn more about joined-up approaches to pest management in our upcoming webinar, ‘Pest Control: Multi-Agency Approaches that Work’.
