Are Tenants or Landlords Responsible for Pest Control?

Rodent infestations are not only unpleasant but can also make a property uninhabitable. Whether it’s rats, mice, or other pests, one key question often arises: is the landlord responsible for pest control, or the tenant?

In the UK, the answer depends on how the infestation started, when it occurred, and who is at fault. This guide explains who is responsible for mice: landlord or tenant, also, outlines your rights as a tenant, and sets out what landlords must do if rodents make your home unsafe.

Is the Landlord Responsible for Pest Control?

In many cases, yes. Landlords are responsible for pest control if the infestation is linked to the structure or condition of the property.

• If mice or rats are entering through a structural defect such as a hole in the wall, faulty drains, or damaged brickwork, the landlord must arrange repairs and pest treatment.
• Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must keep the structure and exterior of the property in repair. If they fail, councils can serve an improvement notice under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System.

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Who is Responsible for Mice – Landlord or Tenant?

Responsibility can shift depending on who caused the problem:

Tenant responsibility

If the infestation is caused by poor hygiene (e.g., food left out, overflowing bins, pet food like dog biscuits), then tenants may be held liable. In such cases, the landlord can deduct pest control costs from your deposit.

Landlord responsibility

If the property was infested before you moved in or the issue arises from poor property maintenance, then it falls to the landlord to act.

How Long Does a Landlord Have to Fix a Rodent Problem in the UK?

If your property has a serious rodent infestation, landlords must act within a reasonable time. There is no fixed legal deadline, but generally:

• For urgent health and safety risks, landlords should act towards solving the problem as soon as possible, exact time may vary depending upon several factors.
• For less severe issues, repairs and treatments must still be carried out in a reasonable period, usually days rather than weeks.

If a landlord ignores the issue, tenants can contact the local council for enforcement action. To stay protected against unexpected repair costs and responsibilities, many landlords choose to invest in a landlord cover that helps manage such situations more efficiently.

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Tenant Rights in a Rat or Mice Infestation

If you’re renting and facing a rodent outbreak, here are your tenant rights in a rat infestation situation:

• If the infestation existed before your tenancy, you may have grounds to end the tenancy early.
• You can request your landlord to arrange pest control and carry out necessary repairs.

If they refuse, you can:

• Report the issue to the local council.
• Arrange pest control yourself, keeping all receipts, and later claim reimbursement.
• Use pest control reports and photographs as evidence if disputes arise.

Can Tenants Sort Out the Problem Themselves?

Yes, tenants can take initial steps such as:

• Keeping the home clean (regularly removing bins, sealing food).
• Setting traps or using poison.

However, if the infestation is widespread, professional pest control is the best solution. Tenants should always notify their landlord first, even if they take action themselves.

Conclusion: Landlord vs Tenant Pest Control Responsibility

To summarize the above, responsibility for pest control in rental properties depends largely on the cause of the infestation. Landlords are generally accountable when the problem is linked to structural defects, pre-existing infestations, or poor property maintenance. Tenants, however, may be held responsible if negligence, such as poor hygiene or failing to dispose of food waste properly, has led to the issue. In situations where the cause is unclear, responsibility typically falls back on the landlord.

If you are currently dealing with pest infestation and need reliable support, contact 24|7 Home Rescue today for expert assistance.

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