Quick answer
To get rid of rats under decking, remove food sources (bird seed, bins, compost, pet food), clear debris from under the deck, deter rats from the area, then block access around the edges with galvanised mesh buried at least 15 to 30 cm into the ground. Burrows near the house or active rats need a professional.
Decking creates a dry, sheltered space right next to the house, often with dropped food falling through the gaps. It's one of the most common places UK homeowners find rats.
Signs of rats under decking
Rats are cautious, so you may not see them. Look for evidence around the edges of the deck.
- Burrow holes of around 6 to 9 cm near the deck edge
- Droppings around 1 to 2 cm long
- Smooth runs worn into grass or soil
- Gnawed wood or plastic
- Rustling or scratching under the boards at dusk
- Rats seen running under the deck
Why rats love decking
Decking offers shelter from predators and weather, dry soil for burrowing, and often food: crumbs from barbecues and meals, bird seed, and pet food. If bins or compost are nearby, it's even better for them.
Low decks with little gap underneath are hard to inspect, so problems can grow unnoticed.
1remove food sources
Stop feeding birds near the deck, sweep after meals and barbecues, keep bins closed and away from the deck, and don't put cooked food in compost.
2clear underneath
If you can lift a board or two, remove leaves, debris and anything stored underneath. Wear gloves and avoid touching droppings or nests.
3deter rats from the area
Make the space under and around the deck unwelcoming. Natural scent deterrents can be placed at access points around the edges and in nearby sheds.
MintGuard peppermint balls need no power and can be placed at the deck edges and in nearby sheds or garages. Each placement lasts around 30 to 60 days. Follow the pack instructions and keep out of reach of children and pets.
4block access with mesh
Once rats have moved on, fit galvanised wire mesh (around 6 mm) around the perimeter of the deck. Bury it at least 15 to 30 cm deep, ideally bent outwards in an L-shape, so rats can't dig under it.
Leave enough ventilation to keep the timber dry.
| Material | Rat-proof? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanised mesh (6 mm) | Yes | Bury 15 to 30 cm, bend outwards |
| Chicken wire | No | Rats can chew through |
| Plastic trellis | No | Easily gnawed |
| Solid timber skirting | Partly | Rats can gnaw; combine with buried mesh |
When to call a professional
Rats near the house carry health risks and can damage property. Contact a pest controller or your council if you see rats regularly, find several burrows, or rats are getting into the house or garage.
Common questions
How do I get rats out from under my decking?
Remove food, clear debris, deter them from the area, then fit buried galvanised mesh around the edges once they've moved on.
Why do I have rats under my decking?
Decking offers shelter, dry soil for burrows and dropped food. Nearby bins, compost and bird feeders make it more attractive.
Can rats get into the house from under decking?
Yes, through damaged air bricks, gaps around pipes and back doors. Check these areas carefully.
What do rat holes under decking look like?
Round holes around 6 to 9 cm wide, often with smooth edges and a worn run leading to them.
Will rats leave decking on their own?
Rarely while there's food and shelter. Remove food, deter them and block access.
Looking for a product? See our rat repellent page.
Sources and further reading
Written by the MintGuard UK team
Researched from trusted UK sources and checked under our editorial policy. Last reviewed 26 October 2026.
