Rat Control in Borough
30 minutes response · SE1
Borough Market is one of the highest-volume food sites in London and it operates within a Victorian structure that was never designed to be sealed. The surrounding warehouse conversions share that substructure. Rodent proofing here is a question of arches, service runs and shared boundaries rather than individual premises.
Rats in Borough
Brown rats and black rats are London's most serious pest problem, causing extensive property damage and health risks. For a full breakdown of the species, the health risks and every treatment option, see our rats guide — or browse everything we treat across Southwark.
Why Borough sees them
- Very high food-waste volume at the market
- Victorian market structure with open voids
- Warehouse conversions sharing substructure
- Thames-side and dock rodent pressure
Signs to look for
- Droppings (12-18mm long, dark brown)
- Gnaw marks on wood, plastic, cables
- Scratching sounds in walls/ceilings
- Grease marks along walls
- Strong ammonia-like odor
How we treat rats here
Professional baiting systems with rodenticides, followed by proofing and monitoring
Properties in Borough are typically market food units, restaurants and bars, warehouse conversions, which shapes how we approach access and proofing. Every treatment includes a follow-up visit and a written prevention plan.
Areas we cover
Other pests we treat in Borough
Rat Control nearby
Frequently asked questions
How quickly can you treat rats in Borough?
We reach most addresses in Borough within 30 minutes, covering SE1. For rats specifically we aim to attend within 2-4 hours of your call, and we run a 24/7 line for urgent cases.
How much does rat treatment cost?
Rats treatment starts from £149. The final price depends on the size of the property and the extent of the infestation, and we confirm it in writing after the survey — there is no call-out charge.
How do I know if I have rats?
The most reliable signs are: Droppings (12-18mm long, dark brown); Gnaw marks on wood, plastic, cables; Scratching sounds in walls/ceilings; Grease marks along walls. If you are seeing any of these, book a survey rather than waiting — rats rarely resolve on their own.
How do you treat rats?
Professional baiting systems with rodenticides, followed by proofing and monitoring Our success rate on rats is 95%, and treatment includes a follow-up visit and a written prevention plan.
Are rats dangerous?
Rats are rated high risk. The main health concerns are weil's disease (leptospirosis), salmonella food poisoning, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. They can also cause electrical wire damage causing fire risk.
How can I stop rats coming back?
Seal holes larger than 6mm; Remove food sources and water; Trim vegetation away from buildings. We include a prevention plan with every treatment and can arrange scheduled monitoring for properties that have had repeat problems.
Why are rats common in Borough?
Very high food-waste volume at the market, and Victorian market structure with open voids. Combined with the local property mix — market food units and restaurants and bars — this gives rats the harbourage and access they need.
Do you cover the whole of Borough?
Yes. We cover every street in Borough across SE1, including Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral, London Bridge. Call 07727 053568 to book.