Pest control
Maintaining a clean and tidy living environment is crucial for preventing pest infestations and ensuring the well-being of all residents.
We need to work together to maintain a clean a pest free environment and living space, and we thank you for your cooperation with this.
We have put together a guide to inform you of your responsibilities, and ours, in keeping your home and environment pest-free.
What is a pest, and how do they get into your home?
There's no legal definition of pests and vermin but they're generally thought to include any living creature that has an undesirable effect on our well-being, our food, or our living conditions.
This includes those that carry disease and parasites; damage food, clothing or buildings; and wild animals that could potentially bite.
Pests can gain entry to your home through various means, including
- gaps and cracks: small openings in walls, doors, windows, and foundations can provide easy access for pests such as insects and rodents.
- Doors and windows: Pests can enter through open doors and windows, especially if screens are damaged or missing.
- Utility lines and pipes: Gaps around utility lines, plumbing pipes, and electrical conduits can serve as entry points for pests.
- Vents and chimneys: Uncapped vents and chimneys can allow pests to enter the building.
- Exterior vegetation: Overgrown vegetation near the building can provide hiding places and pathways for pests to enter.
To prevent pests from gaining entry, it’s important to report any defects and maintain a clean environment.
Pests in your home - responsibilities
In most cases, it’s your responsibility to deal with a pest problem in your home or garden. It is also up to you to let us know of any situation that might cause pests to enter your home.
If there are visible signs of infestation occurring before you move in, we are likely to be responsible for dealing with this.
We are also responsible for dealing with pests in any communal areas owned by Platform, such as shared hallways and gardens.
However, our repair duties are only triggered once you make us aware, it is your responsibility under your Tenancy Agreement that you must notify us of any defects in your home. If you have not reported any defects, arranging the removal of pests is your responsibility.
We are responsible for keeping the structure of the property in good repair.
If it is obvious the pest problem has been caused due to a defect, for example, a hole in the wall which may encourage mice, you must report this to us.
Where can I get more information?
Contact your council to find out if they provide pest control services, they may also provide useful information on how to prevent and treat pests.
Find your local Council
The British Pest Control Association
The British Pest Control Association cover the whole of the United Kingdom and can advise and deal with any pest problems you might have.
Link to British Pest Control Association