Pest Controller Exposes Alarming Rise of Rats in British High Streets

As of October 6th, 2025, a pest controller in the UK's most rat-infested area, Camden, has shed light on the growing rat problem plaguing British high streets. Mick Muldoon of Pestforce, who operates across North London, explains that the drastic changes in the retail landscape have contributed to the surge in rodent infestations.

Where there were once cobblers and bookshops, fast-food outlets and high-street cafe chains now dominate the landscape. This shift has resulted in more food outlets and, consequently, more food waste in the back alleys, attracting an increasing number of rats. The situation has been further exacerbated by the reduction in bin collection frequency, from once a week to once a fortnight, leading to local residents "fly tipping" and creating more food waste.

Mick emphasizes that the conditions are ripe for rats to thrive, with the borough of Camden reporting a staggering 9,133 rat infestations between 2023 and 2025. The pest controller notes that rats, which were once primarily nocturnal, are now becoming "ever more comfortable around people" due to the lack of natural predators.

Mick provides valuable insights on how to prevent rats from entering homes, such as sealing any holes larger than a 50-pence piece, avoiding putting food down drains, and maintaining unkempt vegetation. He stresses that the key to addressing the rat problem lies in proper "housekeeping" and addressing the three essential needs of rats: food, harbourage, and water.