If you've been having trouble with rats, be it in your home or a shared garden, you've probably used poison or traps at some point. However, in a warning, people have been told that this may be pointless.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) said that if you choose to do DIY rat control, there are a few things you need to know. It explained that "rats are hard-wired to survive".

Because of this, "they are adaptable, highly mobile and breed rapidly" which means that controlling rats if not trained in the area can be an "uphill task." Urging people to contact a professional pest management company that is a member of the BPCA, it said that if you would rather try doing it yourself, you should know that "most rats are wary of new objects such as traps or poisons placed in their environment".

READ MORE: UK households told to lock their doors and windows this weekend

READ MORE: Westfield shopping centre evacuated as huge fire engulfs building and public sent urgent warning

With this in mind, the usual traps and poison may not work as rats will "avoid them for a period before exploring them. So don’t expect instant success with this approach".

In fact, a study from the University of Reading revealed a new generation of rats carrying a genetic mutation which makes them resistant to conventional poison. The BPCA said that if you use poison, remember to keep it out of reach of children and pets.

The association gave a "strong warning to anyone using rodenticides", urging people to "always follow the instructions on the label, and importantly search for and dispose of any dead rodents in a safe manner".

It concluded: "Although it is not recommended to tackle these pests yourself, if you decide to give it a go, then you must take all necessary precautions to ensure you do not cause collateral damage or suffer personal injury."

Finding a pest controller to get rid of rats

A BPCA member company will be able to treat infestations quickly and safely and minimise pest activity. BPCA members all have:

• The correct insurance


• Trained and qualified technicians


• Been audited to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636


• To follow BPCA’s Codes of Best Practice

You can find a Pest Controller near you by using the BPCA's search pest control services.