CASE
Pest Proof London was appointed to resolve a long-standing rat infestation at a Victorian property on Grandison Road, Clapham, Southwest London. The homeowner had experienced persistent rodent activity within the living areas of the property and had previously attempted several pest control measures without success. The requirement was for a permanent, humane solution that addressed the true source of the problem rather than the symptoms.
Permanent Rat Ingress Prevention Delivered by Pest Proof London Using TX11
Following completion of a detailed pre-survey questionnaire, Pest Proof London carried out a full-site inspection. Rodent activity was primarily reported within the basement and kitchen areas. Using handheld inspection cameras, Lee confirmed active rodent movement within the subfloor voids beneath the property.
A comprehensive drain camera survey conducted by Pest Proof London identified live rat presence within an existing manhole located beneath a historic kitchen extension. The extension, constructed more than twenty years earlier, had been built directly over the manhole, rendering it concealed and inaccessible. This poor historical construction provided rats with unrestricted access from the drainage system into the subfloor and basement areas.
To facilitate further investigation, Pest Proof London installed a rodding eye in the stack pipe, enabling the use of advanced drain camera equipment. This inspection revealed excavation debris within the drainage runs, visible rat droppings, and clear evidence of established rodent travel routes through the pipework. The findings clearly demonstrate how the drainage network was being used by rats for hydration, movement, and eventual entry into the property.
Remedial Strategy
Based on his findings, Pest Proof London specified a drainage-led remediation strategy designed to permanently prevent rodent ingress. The recommended solution involved the construction of a new external manhole within the front pathway of the property. This approach restored compliant access for future drainage maintenance and, crucially, allowed for the installation of a mainline rat valve.
- Internal proofing works to seal secondary access points
- External excavation within the front pathway of the Victorian property
- Use of a SOM locating device to accurately identify the drain depth and alignment
- Construction of a new manhole to allow correct positioning and installation of a Nordisk TX11 rat valve
Outcome
The TX11 was selected by Pest Proof London due to its proven reliability, robust construction, ease of installation, and VA approval. The valve was installed in the main drainage line to prevent rodents from travelling upstream into the property while maintaining full wastewater flow.
Post-installation monitoring and follow-up carried out by Pest Proof London confirmed that no further rodent activity had been reported. The drainage intervention successfully removed the rodents’ primary access route, providing the homeowner with a permanent and humane resolution.
Conclusion
This project highlights Pest Proof London’s expertise in drainage-led rodent prevention, demonstrating the importance of addressing root causes rather than relying on surface-level pest control treatments.
Through detailed investigation, advanced camera diagnostics, and informed system design, Lee and Pest Proof London were able to identify a hidden structural vulnerability and implement a long-term solution suited to a complex Victorian property. The correct installation of the TX11 rat valve formed a key part of a wider, professionally managed remediation strategy.
Projects such as this underline Pest Proof London’s commitment to permanent, evidence-based rodent control solutions, supported by a deep understanding of rodent behavior, access routes, and environmental constraints. All work is backed by a 12-month guarantee, providing clients with long-term confidence and protection against future rodent growth.
