Rats of almost a foot in length have infested a row of houses in Northfleet.

Around 12 homes in Gouge Avenue are thought to be affected by the infestation, with people spotting the rodents scurrying through their properties over the past few weeks.

The rats’ sudden appearance is thought to have been caused by a mains water supply leak in the road and the houses affected also back onto an area of woodland.

One resident, Melissa Gillingham, said: “About two weeks ago we first noticed it. We started hearing them scurrying around when we were in bed.

“When we spotted one we went and bought a trap and we managed to catch it. We’ve not had anything since then but everyone here can still hear them because our lofts are connected.”

Ms Gillingham lives with her partner, Aaron Barham, and three children — Kasey, four, Maddison, two, and Ella-Rose, six weeks.

"By working together we can aim to limit the damage to property and the distress caused by outbreaks of this kind, and do everything possible, to reduce the chances of it happening again" - Hyde Housing

The 23-year-old believes that the housing association that rents out the properties, Hyde Housing, should be responsible for dealing with the problem

She added: “Hyde should help us get rid of them. Rats carry diseases, they are very nasty creatures and can end up biting.

“They have told us to get pest control involved but you have got to pay for that and I can’t afford it.”

Gravesham council can refer such cases to its pest control contractor, with rats considered to be a public health risk.

They can carry diseases, spoil food, cause structural damage to properties, and can potentially cause electrical fires by chewing through wires and cables.

The council advises that there is “a legal duty on both the occupier and owner of property or land to take all reasonable actions to keep their property or land free from these pests”.

Olushola Alao, Hyde Housing’s resident services manager for Kent, said: “We understand residents’ distress and are committed to doing all we can to help.

"The housing officer for this area is meeting with the residents to discuss how best to work together, alongside the local authority, to address this infestation as a matter of urgency.

"The housing officer will also work with local authority colleagues, to investigate the possible source of this infestation so that it can be addressed.

“In addition, we’re liaising with the council to clear surrounding land of rubbish left by fly tippers. We are keen to support residents to address this issue effectively and are seeking expert advice.

“Unfortunately rats, mice and other pests can become a challenge in residential areas. Often the cause of the original infestation is not readily apparent and it is not unusual that a problem in one home can quickly spread to others.

“By working together we can aim to limit the damage to property and the distress caused by outbreaks of this kind, and do everything possible, to reduce the chances of it happening again.”