Living with a pest infestation is more than just an unpleasant experience — it can be a serious health hazard. Whether it’s rats, mice, cockroaches, bedbugs, or other insects invading your home, dealing with a pest problem is not something any tenant should have to endure for long. Unfortunately, many landlords delay taking action or ignore the issue altogether, leaving tenants feeling helpless.
But here’s the truth: tenants in the UK have legal rights when it comes to pest infestations. If your landlord is failing to keep your property free from pests, you can take legal action. In this article, we’ll explain what causes infestations, who is responsible, and how the housing disrepair can help you get compensation and ensure your home is made safe.
David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
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Common Pests in Rented Homes
Infestations in rented properties are more common than you might think. The most frequent types include:
David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
- Rats and mice: often attracted by leftover food, open bins, or structural gaps.
- Cockroaches: typically thrive in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Bedbugs: infest mattresses, carpets, and furniture.
- Fleas: often left behind by previous tenants or pets.
- Ants and wasps: usually appear in warmer months.
These pests can cause serious damage to property, spread disease, and affect your mental and physical well-being.
Health Risks from Pest Infestation
Living in an infested property puts you and your family at risk. Some of the health hazards include:
David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
- Food contamination: rodents and cockroaches can spread bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli.
- Bites and skin irritation: from bedbugs, fleas, or mites.
- Allergic reactions: especially for children and people with asthma.
- Mental health strain: constant stress, loss of sleep, and embarrassment.
When a landlord refuses to take action, this neglect can become a legal issue.
Landlord’s Legal Responsibility for Pest Control
In the UK, under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords are legally required to ensure the property is free from infestation and safe for occupancy.
David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
If pests are present due to:
- Structural issues (e.g. holes, cracks, poor insulation)
- Neglect of repairs (e.g. broken bins, leaks, or damp)
- Failure to act on reports of pests
…then your landlord is responsible for resolving the issue and covering the costs.
What Should Tenants Do If They Discover an Infestation?
If you’re dealing with a pest problem, here are the steps you should take:
1. Inform Your Landlord Immediately (In Writing)
Contact your landlord or housing association as soon as you notice the issue. Always put your complaint in writing (email or letter) to have a clear record.
David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
Example: “I have noticed signs of a rodent infestation in the kitchen area. Please arrange professional pest control urgently.”
2. Take Evidence
Start building your case with the following:
- Photographs or videos of pests or droppings
- Pest control reports (if any)
- Notes on when the problem began
- Any communication with your landlord
- Health records if you or your family have been affected
- David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
3. Contact Housing Disrepair Team UK
If your landlord fails to act within a reasonable timeframe, reach out to the Housing Disrepair Team UK. They specialise in tenant claims and can help you take legal action against negligent landlords — without you paying a penny upfront.
What Can You Claim For?
With the help of the Housing Disrepair Team UK, you may be entitled to:
- Compensation for inconvenience and discomfort
- Reimbursement for any costs related to pest control you’ve paid for
- Damages for belongings ruined or contaminated
- Health-related claims due to bites, infections, or stress
- Alternative accommodation costs, if the property was uninhabitable
Their no-win, no-fee service means you don’t pay unless they succeed.
Your Rights Are Protected
It’s important to remember that you are legally protected when filing a housing disrepair claim. Your landlord cannot evict or punish you for asserting your legal rights. The law supports tenants who speak out against unsafe living conditions.
Real-Life Example
David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
Don’t Delay — Take Action Today
Pest problems don’t just go away — they get worse. The longer you wait, the more damage occurs, and the harder it becomes to claim full compensation. By working with experts, you can resolve the issue efficiently and reclaim your right to a healthy home.
Conclusion
David, a tenant in Birmingham, noticed rats in his kitchen due to a hole under the sink. His housing association ignored repeated complaints. He contacted the Housing Disrepair Team UK, who gathered the necessary evidence and filed a legal claim. David received £2,800 in compensation, and pest control professionals were sent within two weeks — all at no cost to him.
If you’ve already reported the issue to your landlord with no results, it’s time to escalate things. The Housing Disrepair Team is here to support tenants like you. Get in touch with us for free guidance and practical help to protect your rights.
