Rodent Car Damage Claims Jump 28% as Repairs Hit £2,500
UK drivers face mounting bills as rats and mice target modern car wiring, with insurance claims rising sharply. Winter months see increased risk of expensive damage.
British drivers are facing hefty repair bills as rodent damage to vehicles surges across the UK, with the average claim now hitting nearly £2,500.
Insurance giant Aviva reported a 28% increase in rodent-related damage claims between 2023 and 2024, according to Autocar. The value of these claims rose 11% to an average of £2,494 per incident.
Why Your Car is a Target
James Driscoll, Aviva's motor claims manager, explained the winter risk: "Mice and rats look for warmer places to nest and can squeeze into the tiniest of gaps, including the grilles, vents or open windows of vehicles. Once inside a car, rodents can cause significant damage, from chewing wires and gnawing at interiors to nesting in engines."
Pest control expert Tony Smith, who receives up to four calls weekly from affected motorists, blames modern bioplastics used in car wiring looms. He believes these materials are particularly attractive to rats, creating a costly problem for drivers.
The damage can be devastating. Smith cited a Porsche Cayenne case where rats destroyed the wiring loom, resulting in a £7,000 repair bill including diagnosis.
Garages Report Growing Problem
Local workshops are seeing the impact firsthand. Lewis Devin of Ravenscroft Motors in Fleet, Hampshire, described multiple incidents: "A Ford Ranger had its gearbox wiring loom partially chewed by rodents and cost £200 to repair. The following week, the customer brought it back after it happened again."
Other reported damage includes chewed foam engine covers and interior fans blocked with nuts stored by squirrels.
Scale of the Problem
The data reveals the extent of the UK's rodent crisis:
• Half a million rodent infestations reported to councils between 2023 and mid-2025 • More than half of British Pest Control Association members report increased rat callouts over five years • UK rat population described as "out of control" by pest control professionals
Limited Protection Options
Frustratingly for motorists, pest controllers have limited tools to help. Smith explained: "We're not allowed by law to put down poisoned bait permanently. Among other things, we risk killing field mice, which are endangered. In any case, rats are clever and very cautious around unfamiliar substances."
What This Means for Drivers
With winter months presenting the highest risk, drivers should:
• Check your comprehensive insurance covers rodent damage • Inspect your car regularly for signs of pest activity • Consider parking away from areas with known rodent problems • Be aware that repeat incidents are common
The combination of rising rodent populations and modern car materials appears to be creating a perfect storm for expensive vehicle damage. With limited prevention options available, comprehensive insurance coverage becomes even more crucial for protecting against these unexpected costs.
For insurance disputes or claims issues, contact the Financial Ombudsman Service if your insurer refuses a valid claim.
