Where rats, mice, cockroaches or other pests are linked to defects, drainage or communal conditions under the landlord’s control, the landlord may be responsible for putting the problem right.
Responsibility is fact-specific. Evidence connecting the infestation to the building, communal areas or another landlord-controlled defect is particularly important.
A landlord may be responsible where an infestation results from disrepair, a structural entry point, defective drainage or conditions in communal areas under its control. Tenants should maintain reasonable cleanliness and cooperate with inspections and treatment.
Responsibility depends on the cause of the problem, the terms of your tenancy and whether the landlord had notice and a reasonable opportunity to investigate and act.
A pest-control visit alone may not solve the problem. Ask the council to record and repair holes, defective drains, communal refuse issues or other routes through which pests enter the property.
Read our council claims guide →Good records help establish what happened, when the landlord knew and how the conditions affected your household.
Share the repair history, photographs and how the problem affects your home.
A specialist considers the landlord’s responsibilities and explains your options.
If accepted, we seek appropriate repairs and compensation on your behalf.
No. Responsibility depends on the cause. Claims are stronger where pests enter because of structural defects, drainage or communal conditions controlled by the landlord.
Repeated treatment without sealing entry points may not be an effective remedy. Record every visit and continued signs of infestation.
They may. Photographs, neighbour reports and records concerning communal bins, drains or shared areas can help establish the source.
Tell us what you reported and what happened next. We will explain whether we may be able to assist.