Households urged to apply peppermint oil to door frames this October

As the nights draw in and temperatures start to fall, experts are warning rats are set to invade homes across the UK in search of warmth, shelter and food. The seasonal shift marks the beginning of peak rodent activity, with rising reports of infestations expected as autumn turns to winter.

According to home insurance specialists at Quotezone.co.uk, this year's problem could be even worse than usual following Britain's record-breaking warm summer, which created ideal breeding conditions for rats. Now, as the weather cools, millions of rodents are expected to move indoors, and the consequences for homeowners could be costly.

Rats can chew through wiring, insulation and floorboards, contaminate food supplies and even cause structural damage.

Quotezone warns that infestations can knock up to 20% off a property's value, costing homeowners as much as £53,000 on the average UK house. To make matters worse, most standard home insurance policies won't cover rat-related damage, as it's considered a maintenance issue rather than an unforeseen event.

Greg Wilson, home insurance expert and CEO at Quotezone, said: "Rats are far more than just a nuisance, they're a serious risk to both property and health.

"Once they move in, the damage can escalate quickly, so early prevention is key. Acting now, before winter fully sets in, could save homeowners thousands."

Among the range of preventative measures recommended by experts, one simple and natural trick is proving particularly effective: applying peppermint oil to door frames and entry points.

The strong scent of peppermint is known to repel rats, deterring them from crossing into homes.

Homeowners are also being advised to seal gaps and cracks, keep food stored securely, clear away garden waste, and check for signs of droppings or gnawed materials, all tell-tale indicators of rodent activity.

Wilson added: "A few simple precautions, from sealing entry points to using natural deterrents like peppermint oil, can make a huge difference. Prevention is always cheaper and easier than dealing with an infestation later."

With experts estimating there could be up to 120 million rats across the UK, homeowners are being urged to stay vigilant. As the chill of October sets in, taking a few proactive steps now could keep the warmth in, and the rats out.