Shepherd's Bush has one of the highest HMO densities in west London alongside a long-established street market and Europe's largest urban shopping centre. Shared houses drive the bed bug and cockroach work; the market and Westfield's food courts drive the rodent and fly work.
Rats in Shepherd's Bush
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 Hammersmith and Fulham.
Why Shepherd's Bush sees them
- Very high HMO density
- Market food waste on Goldhawk Road
- Large-scale food court waste at Westfield
- Room-by-room letting spreading bed bugs
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 Shepherd's Bush are typically hmos and shared houses, market stalls, westfield retail and food courts, 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 Shepherd's Bush
Rat Control nearby
Frequently asked questions
How quickly can you treat rats in Shepherd's Bush?
We reach most addresses in Shepherd's Bush within 35 minutes, covering W12. 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 Shepherd's Bush?
Very high HMO density, and Market food waste on Goldhawk Road. Combined with the local property mix — hmos and shared houses and market stalls — this gives rats the harbourage and access they need.
Do you cover the whole of Shepherd's Bush?
Yes. We cover every street in Shepherd's Bush across W12, including Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush Market, Shepherd's Bush Green. Call 07727 053568 to book.

