Irish homeowners are being warned to stay alert after Rentokil reported a sharp nationwide rise in rat activity this year — with colder weather driving rodents indoors in search of food, warmth and shelter.
According to new data from the pest control company, rat-related enquiries are up 12% in 2025 compared with the same period last year. The increase has been recorded across both residential and commercial settings, as dropping temperatures push rodents to take refuge inside buildings.
The company notes that infestations tend to spike during autumn and winter, when rats and mice seek shelter in attics, basements and wall cavities. The trend, seen in every Irish county, suggests that many households may be at greater risk of unwanted visitors over the coming months.
“As we move into the colder months, it is common to see increased rat and general rodent activity as they migrate indoors seeking warmth and shelter,” said Colm Moore, Regional Technical Manager for Rentokil. “We are reminding homeowners and businesses to stay alert for signs of infestation, including droppings, scratching noises in walls or ceilings, footprints, and gnaw marks, and to act quickly to prevent a larger problem from developing.”
Moore added that “rats remain one of the most persistent pest challenges we deal with in Ireland. Identifying and addressing entry points early, along with regular monitoring, is key to keeping properties protected.”
Rentokil says the surge in reports is being closely tracked through its digital pest monitoring system, PestConnect, which allows for early detection and treatment. Its Dual AutoGate Connect device enables targeted baiting that minimises risk to non-target wildlife, part of the company’s efforts to manage infestations responsibly and efficiently.
The warning comes as experts highlight the potential dangers rodents pose to both property and health. Rats can gnaw through cables, insulation and pipework — increasing fire and flooding risks — and can transmit diseases through droppings and urine.
While Rentokil advises against panic, it recommends early vigilance: sealing entry points, keeping food securely stored, and checking for warning signs before infestations take hold.
