Home insurance providers are urging homeowners to be on the lookout this winter, as rats are starting to invite themselves into people’s property, to escape the cold.

However, there is only one problem with this. Whilst insurers have been quick to encourage property owners to protect their pipes from freezing and their vehicles from crashing, they have yet to tackle the rat issue.

As a result, insurers have offered advice on how to get Rowland the Rat out. Home owners should seal gaps and holes in their homes, keep external doors closed and repair broken drain pipes.

Darren Black, from a price comparison site commented: "Recent weather is proving to be a struggle for rats that aren't fans of the extremely cold conditions. They want to share our home comforts and are seeking warmth inside.

"Homeowners need to take steps which will prevent rats gaining access to our homes as these pest guests are particularly unsavoury. With more rubbish around and continued cold conditions, a few simple steps will negate the risk of rats setting up home without an invite from the owner."