Pest issues faced in rental properties – who’s responsible? Common pests and how to avoid them.
Pest infestations can cause considerable harm to a property and the health of tenants. So, who is responsible, the tenant or the Landlord, and how should pests be dealt with?
Identifying the root cause of a pest infestation can be a complex and challenging task as there are numerous potential sources of infestations, many of which may not be directly attributable to the tenant or the landlord. Nonetheless, there are measures that can be applied to mitigate this confusion.
A recent article in Propertymarks, ‘Property Professional’ advises on how to avoid these pests;
HOW TO AVOID POTENTIAL PEST INFESTATIONS
- Encourage tenants to perform regular cleaning and maintain good housekeeping.
- Carry out regular property inspections and address maintenance issues promptly.
- Implement an efficient reporting system for tenants to notify you of any issues and required repairs.
- Check the property for rodent entry points both inside and outside, and seal any holes found.
- Use experienced and qualified contractors for all property-related tasks.
- Pay attention to garden maintenance, avoiding overgrown areas or excessive leaf piles that may attract pests.
- Ensure any communal bin areas are well maintained
- Keep the surrounding areas clean and tidy, and pay attention to neighbouring properties for any signs of pest activity.
- Suggest a deep clean of the property for in between tenancies.
- Don't overlook the importance of disinfecting soft furnishings to eliminate bedbugs and fleas.
DOCUMENTING PEST-FREE PROPERTIES TO PROTECT LANDLORD AND TENANTS FROM DEPOSIT DISPUTES
In the absence of comprehensive inventories and inspections, it can become challenging to establish responsibility or causes of pest infestations. Landlords should ensure they have an inventory (signed by the tenants) as evidence of a pest free property at the start of the tenancy. Clear communication, regular inspections and prompt action are key in preventing and resolving pest issues in rental properties.
Common questions
"My tenants have seen a rat and are very worried, what can I do to help?"
Rats are a health and safety risk so need to be dealt with promptly. As a landlord, there are several things you can do to help remove rats from your rental property. The first step is to identify the source of access. This may involve hiring a pest control professional to inspect the property and develop a treatment plan. Rats are masters at gaining access and common entry points to check are poorly fitted pipes, broken air vents, drains, overgrown shrubbery leading to your roof, doors (particularly garages), exposed building works and new-build 'breathing holes' between bricks. Eliminating the rat's food source is essential, so ensure your tenants are storing food properly, and keeping the property clean and clutter-free.
"How can I help with a silverfish infestation?"
Silverfish are creatures that feed on mould spores, which can thrive in damp environments. They are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, where humidity levels are high and ventilation is poor. If the infestation is due to a water leak, it is usually the landlord's responsibility to address the issue. Drying clothes in a confined space can also contribute to high humidity levels.
"What about pests that have migrated from neighbours' homes?"
This is a common problem, especially with mice and rats in terraced properties. You should inform your neighbours and ask them to deal with the problem. You can contact environmental health if your neighbours don't respond. Plus, the local authority's pest control or Environmental Health team can give you help and advice in dealing with problems with pests and vermin. Some local authorities have a pest control service which you might be able to use.
WHOS RESPONSIBLE?
The responsibility for eradicating vermin in a rented property is usually with the landlord, although it can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the cause of the vermin infestation.
To determine the specific responsibilities in a particular situation, tenants and landlords should refer to the terms of the tenancy agreement. If there is any ambiguity or disagreement, it's advisable to communicate openly and try to reach an agreement, if necessary, seeking legal advice.
LANDLORD'S RESPONSIBILITY
Landlords are typically responsible for ensuring that the property is free from any pre-existing vermin infestations before a new tenant moves in. It is their duty to provide a habitable and safe living environment for the tenant. If vermin infestations occur during the tenancy due to structural issues, pre-existing conditions, or the landlord's failure to maintain the property, the responsibility to eradicate vermin falls on the landlord.
TENANT'S RESPONSIBILITY
Tenants are expected to maintain cleanliness and report any issues to the landlord promptly. If the vermin infestation occurs as a result of the tenant's actions, such as introducing pets, leaving food out or poor sanitation habits, the responsibility to deal with the infestation may shift to the tenant.
SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
In some cases, the responsibility for eradicating vermin may be shared between the landlord and tenant. For instance, the landlord might handle the initial extermination and necessary repairs, while the tenant is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and taking preventive measures to avoid future infestations.
Should you need any help or advice in relation to the above or any other property related query please do not hesitate to contact our team.
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