Signs of rats in the loft (and what to do tonight)
Last updated: 12 October 2026 · Reviewed by: M. Hanifi, RSPH Level 2 qualified technician
The main signs of rats in the loft are scratching or thudding noises at night, large dark droppings in the insulation, chewed cables and a musty smell. Tonight, keep the loft hatch closed, remove any food sources and avoid touching droppings. Then book a professional inspection so entry points can be found and sealed.
How do I know if it's rats in the loft?
Rats make heavier thudding and scratching noises than mice, usually at night, and leave droppings 10–20 mm long.
- Noises after dark, often above bedrooms
- Droppings in insulation or on joists
- Chewed cables, pipe lagging and boxes
- Tunnels through loft insulation
- Grease marks around the eaves
What should I do tonight?
Keep the loft hatch shut, don't disturb the rats, and don't touch droppings without gloves.
- Close the hatch and seal it with tape if loose.
- Move pet food and fruit bowls into sealed containers.
- Take bin bags out and secure bin lids.
- Don't put down shop-bought poison; it can leave dead rats in the ceiling.
- Call us: we're open 24/7.
How do rats get into lofts?
Rats usually get into lofts through gaps at the roofline, cavity walls, broken air bricks or from defective drains that connect to wall voids.
Treatment removes the rats; proofing stops new ones following the same route.
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Frequently asked questions
Are rats in the loft dangerous?
Yes. They chew wiring, which is a fire risk, and their urine and droppings can carry disease.
