The Problem
Bespoke Pest Control was contacted following reports of rat activity inside a residential property in Hertford. Rats had been seen in both the kitchen and conservatory, raising concerns about how they were gaining access to the building.
While evidence of rat activity can often be treated with conventional pest control methods, recurring problems may indicate an underlying issue that needs to be investigated.
Rather than relying solely on baiting, we wanted to establish where the rats were coming from and identify any defects that could be allowing them into the property.
The Investigation
We carried out a CCTV drainage survey using our Scanprobe X40 inspection equipment to investigate the drainage system and look for evidence of rat activity and structural defects.
The survey identified a blockage within the drainage system, evidence of live rodent activity and defects in the pipework, including a section where the drain was broken and provided a potential access route into the property and garden.
This gave us a clearer understanding of the problem. The issue wasn’t simply the presence of rats inside the building. There was evidence of an underlying drainage problem that needed to be addressed.
The Solution
Our approach focused on both managing the immediate rat activity and addressing the potential route of entry.
Source
The CCTV survey helped identify the drainage defects and rodent activity, allowing us to investigate the underlying cause rather than treating the symptoms alone.
Exclude & Restrict
We installed a 5-inch one-way rat valve as an interim measure to help restrict rat movement through the drainage system while the necessary drainage repairs remained outstanding.
Manage
Targeted rodent control measures were implemented in high-risk areas to manage the existing activity while the underlying issue was being addressed.
Why the Drainage Repairs Matter
Where damaged drains provide access for rats, pest control treatments alone may not offer a lasting solution.
Unless the underlying defect is repaired, the property may remain vulnerable to further rodent activity. Identifying the problem early allows the appropriate repairs to be planned alongside the pest management programme.
The Result
The investigation established a clear reason to look beyond the visible signs of rat activity and consider the condition of the drainage system.
By combining CCTV drainage inspection with targeted rodent control and an interim exclusion measure, Bespoke Pest Control was able to identify the problem areas and recommend practical steps to address them.
The permanent outcome depends on the outstanding drainage repairs and subsequent monitoring.
Our Approach: Source. Exclude & Restrict. Manage.
At Bespoke Pest Control, we believe effective pest management starts with understanding why a problem exists.
Our SEM approach brings together three essential elements:
- Source – Investigate the cause and identify routes of entry.
- Exclude & Restrict – Reduce access and address the conditions allowing pests to enter.
- Manage – Apply appropriate control measures and monitor activity.
Because successful pest management isn’t just about dealing with the pests you can see. It’s about understanding why they’re there in the first place.
Bespoke Pest Control – Practical pest management built around finding the cause, not just treating the symptoms.