Protect your outfit from vermin damage

Whether you're in the city or the countryside, in a caravan or a motorhome, vermin aren't picky. They can cause structural or electrical damage and even food contamination.

It is worth noting that most insurance policies would exclude vermin damage from cover, so make sure to take all the precautions you can to prevent them making a visit.

Eliminate food sources 

1. Clean Thoroughly
Before storing your outfit, remove all food items, including dried goods, pet food, and anything that might attract vermin. Pay special attention to cleaning the kitchen area and under appliances. 

2. Store Food Properly
Use airtight containers, preferably metal or glass, to store any food items that need to be left in the caravan. This includes pet food and any dried goods. 

3. Empty Bins
Ensure all waste bins are emptied and cleaned, both inside and outside the caravan. Avoid leaving waste outside, as it can attract vermin. 

Seal entry points

1. Inspect for gaps
Carefully inspect the exterior of your outfit for any gaps, cracks, or holes around doors, windows, vents, and pipework. 

2. Seal openings
Seal any gaps with appropriate materials like caulk, steel wool, or wire mesh. Be cautious around gas drop out vents and fresh air ventilation points, using fine mesh instead of completely blocking them. Make sure you don’t restrict flow through these vents, however - they’re essential for your safety.

3. Consider mesh
Replace plastic mesh on vents with metal mesh, as mice and rats may chew through plastic.

4. Plug pipes
Make sure any open ends to water/waster or gas pipes are closed off with covers, caps or bungs to prevent insect access.

Use Deterrents

1. Scent-based repellents
Consider using scents like peppermint oil, mothballs, or dryer sheets, which may deter rodents from entering. Place them in strategic locations, like near entry points or in storage areas. 

2. Ultrasonic devices
Invest in ultrasonic pest repellers, which emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to rodents. 

3. Traps
Use humane traps to catch any rodents that may have entered. Place them in areas where you've noticed droppings or other signs of rodent activity. 

Additional tips

1. Store bedding and cushions
Remove cushions, bedding, and other soft furnishings when storing the caravan, as these can provide nesting materials for rodents. 

2. Park strategically
If possible, park your caravan on hard standing rather than grass, as mice are less likely to venture onto bare surfaces. 

3. Regular inspections
Regularly check your caravan for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, chewed items, or nests. 

4. Check with storage site
If using a storage site, inquire about their vermin control measures and policies. 

 

Published September 2025