Rat Control in Smithfield
25 minutes response · EC1A
Smithfield has handled meat for eight centuries and the rodent pressure reflects it. Volume, overnight working and chilled loading bays create conditions nowhere else in the City matches, and the residential conversions on the surrounding streets sit directly in the path of it. Proofing matters more here than baiting.
Rats in Smithfield
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 City of London.
Why Smithfield sees them
- Centuries of established rodent pressure
- Overnight market working hours
- Chilled loading bays left open during trading
- Residential conversions adjoining trade premises
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 Smithfield are typically market and meat-trade premises, chilled storage and loading bays, residential 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 Smithfield
Rat Control nearby
Frequently asked questions
How quickly can you treat rats in Smithfield?
We reach most addresses in Smithfield within 25 minutes, covering EC1A. 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 Smithfield?
Centuries of established rodent pressure, and Overnight market working hours. Combined with the local property mix — market and meat-trade premises and chilled storage and loading bays — this gives rats the harbourage and access they need.
Do you cover the whole of Smithfield?
Yes. We cover every street in Smithfield across EC1A, including Smithfield Market, St Bartholomew's, Charterhouse Square. Call 07727 053568 to book.