Written by a Zeus Services Certified Technician
Zeus Services holds full BPCA membership and our rodent proofing technicians are trained to City & Guilds Level 2 standard in pest control and building surveying.
All Zeus Services rodent proofing work is backed by a full 2-year written warranty. If rodents re-enter through any area we have proofed within that period, we return and re-proof completely free of charge. No other pest control company in London offers a longer written warranty on proofing work.
Why Treatment Alone Is Not Enough
Professional rodenticide treatment eliminates the current population — typically within 7–14 days. But it does not prevent new rodents from entering the property. Without proofing, re-infestation rates within 12 months exceed 70% in urban London properties. Rodent proofing is the only permanent solution.
Common Entry Points
Air Bricks & Vents
Plastic air bricks deteriorate over time and are easily gnawed through. Metal vent covers with 6mm mesh are the correct replacement. Older properties often have missing or damaged air bricks providing direct access to sub-floor voids.
Pipe Gaps & Service Entry Points
Any pipe entering the property — gas, water, drainage, electrical conduit — passes through a hole in the wall. If the gap around the pipe has not been properly sealed, it is an open invitation. Rats can squeeze through a gap the size of a 50p coin; mice need only 6–7mm.
Gaps in Floorboards & Skirting Boards
Older Victorian and Edwardian properties have significant voids under suspended timber floors. Gaps between floorboards, around pipe penetrations and at the base of skirting boards allow mice free movement throughout the ground floor.
Roof Line & Fascia Boards
Damaged or missing fascia boards, open eaves, and deteriorated roofline mortar allow roof rats and grey squirrels direct access to the loft space. A comprehensive survey will always include a roofline inspection.
Drainage & Sewers
Rats regularly enter properties through damaged sewer pipes, unsealed drain caps and broken drain runs. Drain bait stations and drain pipe rodent stoppers (one-way valves) are standard components of a thorough proofing programme for rat infestations.
Materials Used in Professional Proofing
Stainless Steel Mesh
Grade 304 stainless steel mesh with 6mm aperture. Cannot be gnawed through by rats or mice.
Expanding Rodent-Proof Foam
Contains a fine wire mesh matrix and capsaicin deterrent. Used for pipe gaps and irregular voids.
Solid Mortar
Used for structural gaps and air brick surrounds. Mixed with a wire reinforcement additive.
Steel Kick Plates
Applied to door bases and garage doors where timber is vulnerable to gnawing.