Pest Control for Rental Properties

Landlords have clear legal responsibilities regarding pest control in rental properties. If a pest problem is caused by structural issues such as gaps, broken drains, or poor maintenance, the landlord is responsible for resolving both the pest issue and the underlying cause.

The local authority can serve improvement notices on landlords who fail to address pest problems, and tenants can withhold rent or pursue disrepair claims through the courts. Acting quickly when pests are reported protects you legally and maintains your relationship with your tenants.

Related sectors: housing associations, landlords and housing providers.

When a tenant reports a pest problem, speed matters. We provide rapid response, typically attending within 24 to 48 hours of first contact. Our technicians communicate directly with tenants when required, arranging access at convenient times and explaining the treatment process clearly.

After treatment, we provide a written report covering findings, treatments applied, and any recommendations for proofing or maintenance work. This gives you a clear record of action taken and any follow-up needed.

The most common pests in rental properties include:

• Mice and rats: Often entering through structural defects, broken drains, or gaps around pipes. Proofing is essential to prevent recurrence.
• Bed bugs: A particular concern between tenancies. Inspection and treatment during void periods prevents problems for incoming tenants.
• Fleas: Often left behind by previous tenants' pets. Void property treatment eliminates flea populations before new tenants move in.
• Cockroaches: More common in flats and terraced properties where infestations can spread between units.

When a tenancy ends, void property treatment ensures the property is pest-free before the next tenant moves in. This is particularly important for bed bug and flea prevention, as these pests can survive in empty properties for extended periods.

Our void property service includes a full inspection, treatment where needed, and proofing recommendations. A clearance report confirms the property is ready for re-letting.

For landlords with multiple properties, we provide portfolio-level pest management with a single point of contact, consistent service standards, and consolidated reporting. This simplifies administration and ensures all your properties receive the same level of protection.

See our landlords and housing providers and multi-site customers pages for more information about portfolio services.

We provide pest control for rental properties across the North East, including Darlington, Stockton, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Durham, Sunderland, and Newcastle.

Rental properties are part of our wider property and housing pest control programme, which also covers housing associations, facilities management, and multi-site operators.