Who is responsible for pest control in a rented property?

In the UK, the responsibility for pest control in a rented property can depend on the terms of the tenancy agreement. Generally, if the infestation was caused by the tenant’s actions, such as poor hygiene or leaving food out, then they would be responsible for dealing with pest control.

However, if the infestation is not the tenant’s fault and is a result of structural issues or an external factor, then it would be the landlord’s responsibility to take care of the pest control.

If the tenancy agreement is silent on the issue of pest control, it is still the landlord’s responsibility to ensure that the property is fit for habitation, which includes making sure there are no pest infestations.

If there is a disagreement between the landlord and tenant regarding pest control responsibilities, it may be necessary to seek legal advice or contact the local council’s environmental health department for guidance.

What should I do if the landlord won’t fix the pest control problem?

If the landlord won’t fix the pest control problem despite being responsible for doing so, there are several steps you can take:

• Put your complaint in writing: Send a formal complaint to your landlord or letting agent in writing, detailing the pest problem and asking them to resolve the issue. Keep a copy of the letter for your records.
• Contact the local council’s environmental health department: If your landlord is not responding to your complaint, you can contact the environmental health department of your local council. They can conduct an inspection of your property and order your landlord to carry out pest control measures.
• Seek legal advice: You may want to consider seeking legal advice from a solicitor or your local Citizens Advice Bureau. They can provide guidance on your rights as a tenant and advise you on the best course of action to take.

It’s important to remember that landlords have a legal obligation to provide tenants with a safe and habitable living environment, which includes ensuring the property is free from pests. If your landlord is not fulfilling their legal obligations, you have the right to take action to resolve the issue.

Can the tenant try and sort out their pest control problem?

Yes, the tenant can try to sort out their pest control problem if the responsibility for doing so falls on them according to the terms of the tenancy agreement or if it is unclear who is responsible.

What should I do if I can’t get rid of the pest myself?

If you are unable to get rid of the pest yourself and the responsibility for pest control falls on the landlord, you should inform them of the situation as soon as possible. You should provide them with as much information as possible, such as what type of pest it is, how long you have had the problem, and what you have done to try and address it.

If the landlord does not respond or is not willing to take action, you can consider contacting the local council’s environmental health department for assistance. They can conduct an inspection of your property and order your landlord to carry out pest control measures.

If the pest problem is causing significant disruption to your living conditions, you may also want to consider temporary alternative accommodation while the issue is resolved.

Should I call a pest control company?

If you are experiencing a pest problem in your rented property, you should first check your tenancy agreement to determine who is responsible for pest control. If it is the landlord’s responsibility, you should inform them of the situation and ask them to take action.

If the landlord is not responding or is unable to resolve the pest problem, you may want to consider calling a pest control company. However, before doing so, you should check with your landlord to make sure they are willing to pay for the cost of the service.

If the landlord agrees to pay for the pest control service, you can go ahead and contact a reputable pest control company. They will be able to assess the severity of the infestation and recommend appropriate treatment options.

It’s important to keep records of any communication with your landlord or letting agent and any steps you have taken to address the pest problem. This will help to ensure that you are not held responsible for any costs associated with resolving the issue.