Severe Rat Infestation in Hamburg-Wilhelmsburg: Local Council Demands Action from Vonovia
Hamburg, July 11 – The Alter Bahnhofsviertel in the centre of Hamburg-Wilhelmsburg is grappling with a severe rat infestation. The rodents have multiplied to such an extent that the Mitte district assembly is now urging the landlord, Vonovia, to take decisive action. A joint motion by the SPD, Greens, and CDU refers to the situation as ‘untenable and hygienically extremely questionable conditions’.
Jörn Frommann, a CDU district councillor, reported seeing rats regularly ‘jumping in front of one’s feet’ after a tour of the affected areas.
Courtyards ‘Contaminated’ with Rats
According to the report, the rear and inner courtyards of Vonovia buildings on Keindorffstraße, Buddestraße, Thielenstraße, and Wittestraße are ‘literally contaminated with rats’. Dead animals are found next to playgrounds, rat holes are abundant, paving slabs are sinking, and parked bicycles are being submerged.
Lack of Cleanliness and Ineffective Poison Bait
Open waste containers are believed to be attracting the animals, with particularly large numbers congregating around partly open bins. The lack of cleanliness in the district appears to be a major part of the problem, a situation that also occurred in 2018. Although the situation temporarily improved, it has now become acute again.
While landlord Vonovia regularly lays poison bait, SPD, Greens, and CDU representatives state that this is no longer sufficient given the ‘obviously exponential multiplication’ of the animals.
Vonovia to Report to Regional Committee
The political factions are demanding, among other things, a radical deep cleaning of the rear and inner courtyards, new waste containers, and more education for residents. The real estate company is expected to report on its actions to the Regional Committee in September.
Other Hamburg Districts Also Affected by Rat Problems
Hamburg-Eimsbüttel has seen a particularly high number of rat control operations, and Wandsbek also reports a significant rodent population. The NDR also provides information on how to deter rats in gardens, outlining regulations and preventative measures.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | 11.07.2026 | 12:00 Uhr.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/rattenplage-bei-vonovia-gebaeuden-in-hamburg-wilhelmsburg,ratten-120.html
