Thursday 2nd March 2006
Homes could face an invasion of rats as cold weather brings the rodents indoors to find shelter.
The warning comes from esure that has set out a number of tips to help homeowners stop any unwelcome rodent visitors choosing to stay.
Nikki Sellers, esure head of home insurance, said: "Homeowners should make their home as rodent proof as possible during cold spells when mice and rats are on the look out for a warm place to nest and easy access to food.
"Be extra vigilant and do not delay in seeking professional advice if you notice any tell-tale signs such as gnawed wires or droppings."
She added: "Eradicating pest problems can be costly and leave homeowners with unexpected hefty bills."
The first tip is to make sure there is no food source to attract rats.
Rubbish that has been spilt should be cleaned up, household garbage should be chucked out in bags and bins should have their lids firmly in place.
Making sure there is no easy way for them to get into the house is also very important. Holes by pipes, favoured by mice, should be sealed up along with cracks in doors and windows and loose drain covers.
If a rat does come to visit make sure your home is not very inviting. Rats like to make a nest and bags of old clothes and discarded cuddly toys in the attic make a perfect home for them.
A general good level of hygiene in the home will also help to stop rodents coming and in the garden hiding places, such as piles of leaves and junk left in the shed, ought to be cleaned up.
A few precautions to hold back vermin can stop them being a nasty nuisance or even leading to damage that might need you to claim on your house insurance. 
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