Introduction

Acknowledgements

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Introduction to Subject

Several insects, animals and birds can invade our homes, causing a range of problems. Some are merely an inconvenience while others present a real health hazard. Pests can spread illnesses, cause damage to structures and contaminate food supplies. Controlling them adequately is essential to maintaining a safe and pleasant environment for people to live in.

Pests commonly found in this country include insects such as fleas, cockroaches, ants and wasps, as well as mice, rats, pigeons, foxes, and even squirrels.

Information is included in 'Common Pests' sections below.

Please Note: It is not necessary to have read these sections to complete the quiz.

As a landlord, you would be expected, as far as possible, to keep your property free from pests and in a manner that neither attracts them nor provides easy harborage. The Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 is still in force and you could be served with a statutory notice to eradicate the pests if an infestation at your property is causing a problem for tenants or neighbours.

If your property is infested and deemed to be in a 'verminous condition' you could also be obliged to have it 'cleansed' under the Public Health Acts 1936 or 1961.

These notices could be served on the tenants if it is deemed to be their responsibility, being caused by their lifestyle or actions. If the tenant who caused the problem has moved out, you would be obliged to eradicate the pests before the next tenant moved in. If the problem only became apparent after new tenants moved in, but it was obvious that it wasn't their fault, you would again be expected to sort it out.

In addition to this, the Housing Act 2004 introduced the HHSRS as a means of assessing the standard of accommodation. See the HHSRS section for more details. One of the hazards to be assessed is termed 'Domestic Hygiene, Pests and Refuge'. This deals with:

• Poor design, layout and construction meaning that a dwelling cannot be readily kept clean and hygienic
• Access into, and harborage within the dwelling, for pests
• Inadequate and unhygienic provision for storing and disposal of household waste.

If inspectors considered there was sufficient evidence of a problem, they may ask you to rectify it under this legislation.

Legislation

• Housing Act 2004
• Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949
• Public Health Act 1936
• Public Health Act 1961