I'm a pest control expert - this £1 coin test will keep rats out of your home

A pest control expert has shared a simple £1 coin test that could stop rats from getting into your home this winter. James Copley, the Director of Copley Pest Solutions, said autumn is the peak season for infestations as falling temperatures push rodents to search for warmth, shelter and food indoors.

His firm has already responded to more than 2,200 rodent callouts this year, including 238 in September alone, and warns the numbers are expected to rise as the weather gets colder. He said: "As the colder season approaches, food and warmth become scarcer for rodents, which makes our home an attractive nesting site for winter.

"Once rats enter the home, it is difficult to remove them, but taking these simple rat-proofing measures can prevent an infestation in the long run."

One of the easiest things you can do is check for gaps or holes around your home using a £1 coin.

James said: "Rats can squeeze through gaps as small as two centimetres, about the diameter of a £1 coin, so taking a walk around your property for potential entry points is crucial.

"Pay particular attention to areas where pipes enter your home, damaged air bricks, gaps under doors, and cracks in walls or foundations."

He recommends filling holes with steel wool before sealing them with caulk or cement. Steel wool costs as little as £3.70 and is something rats can't chew through.

Keeping bins properly secured is also important during autumn, as natural food sources become harder for rodents to find.

"Your rubbish bins can be a feast for hungry rats," James explained.

"Make sure your bins have tight-fitting lids that cannot be pushed off and keep them away from fences or walls that rats could use to climb up and gain access."

He said cleaning both inside and outside bins with warm water or disinfectant helps remove smells that attract pests.

Food should also be kept in sealed containers, including pet food and dry goods like pasta, rice, and cereal.

James added: "If you have pets, aim to have set feeding times and don't leave their food bowls out overnight, as this could attract rodents."

Even crumbs and small spills can be enough to tempt rats in. Once they find a food source, they're likely to stay.

James also warned homeowners not to ignore their garden during the colder months.

"Garden clutter can provide perfect hiding places for rats," he said. "Old furniture, piles of wood, unused plant pots and dense plants can all create ideal nesting sites."

Blocked gutters can also give rats a way into loft spaces, so James recommends clearing leaves and debris regularly and checking for build-up.

The expert said: "Rat-proofing your home is the most effective way of deterring rodents. Most homeowners only notice they have rats when the infestation is already established. Preventative measures cost very little and cause rodents no harm, but they could save you a lot of stress and money in the long run."