By ROB HULL, MOTORING EDITOR
There are plenty of factors that can impact your car insurance premiums.
A recent endorsement on your driving licence, a rise in motor theft in your postcode, or a change to a more powerful vehicle can all send your policy prices spiralling.
But one contributing factor to premium increases you might not expect is... rats.
However, rodent-related motor claims have jumped in the last year - and are predicted to soar this winter with predictions of a major rat infestation over the coming months.
Insurer Aviva said it dealt with 28 per cent more motor claims involving rodent damage in 2024 than the year previous - and it the colder months of December and January when incidents spike.
The average cost of fixing damage from rats gnawing through wiring and other components also increased by 11 per cent, which is pushing average premiums higher as a result.
Motorists are being told to remain extra vigilant over the coming weeks, with experts predicting a surge in rats linked to an unusually high acorn season.
The nation's motorists are being warned to be extra vigilant of rats this winter, with a rise in infestations predicted as a result of an unusually high acorn season
The average claim for rodent-related vehicle damage last year was £2,494 compared to £2,253 in 2023.
In one case, a customer's car suffered an estimated £24,000 of damage thanks to rats, which made the repair uneconomical and resulted in the vehicle being written off.
And Aviva's rodent report says rats can cause severe damage that have a major impact on safety and could put drivers, passengers and other road users at increased risk.
The most common finding is rodent nets within engine compartments and behind passenger airbags.
Given the flammable materials typically making up a rat nest and proximity to a hot engine and fluids, there is a major risk of fire.
Another cause of concern is rodent attacks on wiring and cabling, with rats chewing through looms that can impact both internal and external electrics, sensors, batteries, suspension system and gear mechanisms.
And they've also been found to have gnawed through seats, seatbelts, footwell carpets and other parts of a car's interior that are expensive to replace.
Fuel and water leaks caused by rodents biting into fuel tanks and piping systems have also been reported.
The average claim for rodent-related vehicle damage last year was £2,494 compared to £2,253 in 2023
A telltale sign of rodent activity in your car's engine bay is the wiring, which rats will quickly gnaw through
Aviva says drivers should make regular checks for rodent nets within engine compartments. Given the flammable materials typically making up a rat nest and proximity to a hot engine and fluids, there is a major risk of fire
Experts are warning that 2025 has been a bumper year for acorns, fruit and nuts - and this is likely to trigger a surge in pests, especially rat activity.
It comes as pest controllers have recently reported catching rodents more than 20 inches long amid a 'horrendous infestation'.
A warm, dry spring followed by an early autumn means 2025 is shaping up to be a 'mast year', environmental consultants revealed.
These happen every five to 10 years and occur when certain trees and shrubs produce a synchronised bumper crop of seeds, fruits and nuts.
An abundance of nuts and berries – especially on woodland walks – is a telltale sign.
However, it can also lead to increased activity from the likes of rats, mice, acorn weevils and moths.
Have you had a car damaged by rodents? Get in touch: editor@thisismoney.co.uk
1. Keep your car clean
Remove any food, crumbs, and wrappers from your vehicle, as these can attract rodents.
2. Park smart
If possible, avoid parking near bins or overgrown grass, which are common nesting spots.
Where possible, park overnight in a secure location, such as a garage, to help deter unwanted visitors.
This is especially important for those who don't drive regularly, as stationary cars can attract vermin looking for a warm, sheltered place to nest.
3. Consider other deterrents
Drivers can buy mesh covers or protective wraps to block access to the engine bay - typically the favourite nesting spot for rodents in search of heat.
4. Regularly check under the bonnet
Any time you have the bonnet open - whether that's to top up window washer fluid, the oil or other fluids - take a moment to inspect the engine bay for any signs of wear, damage, or rodent activity.