Carole Parton, a 62-year-old grandmother from Birmingham, has endured a relentless rat infestation in her one-bedroom bungalow on Manston Road, Sheldon, for over three years. The infestation has been so severe that decaying rat carcasses have leaked through her ceiling, causing distress and worsening health issues for Carole and her husband Robert, 67.
Living at the property for five years, the Partons first noticed suspicious noises in their loft in 2022. Initially thinking they were squirrels, a check by their grandson revealed rat droppings scattered on the floor. Despite numerous visits from Birmingham City Council pest control teams and repeated applications of rat bait, the rodents continue to invade their home. The rats have not only infested the loft but have also been found within the wall cavities, kitchen, bathroom, and even under the bath.
Last month, the council replaced the property’s drains. According to one worker, the level of rat holes beneath the bungalow was unprecedented. The infestation has severely affected Carole’s health; during the COVID-19 pandemic, she experienced alarming symptoms such as grey skin and purple lips. Medical diagnosis pointed to Weil’s disease, believed to have been contracted from fluids seeping through the ceiling from decomposing rats killed by poison.
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The ongoing rodent activity disrupts their sleep; Carole compared the noise in the attic to rats “playing football with boots on” among her stored Christmas decorations. Despite occasional lulls in activity, the Partons fear the problem will return. The situation is especially concerning given their pre-existing health challenges. Carole lives with bronchitis, COPD, asthma, and a slipped disc, while Robert faces serious conditions including Alzheimer’s, chronic angina, high blood pressure, and heart issues requiring stents.
Attempts to relocate through council housing have been frustratingly unfruitful. The couple remains on Band A, the highest priority bracket for housing rehousing, but suitable accommodation has yet to be secured. The council has stated that it has treated and sealed the property to prevent further pest entry, with no recent rat activity or dampness reported. They reaffirmed their commitment to assisting the family in relocating to a home that meets their health and living needs.
Yet, for Carole and Robert Parton, life continues under the shadow of a severe rodent infestation—turning their home into a place of distress and health risk.