Landlords have a responsibility to deal with pests vermin, but they can pass the cost on to you if they believe it is your actions (such as waste, or not keeping the property clean) that have led to the problem.  Often, however, pest and vermin problems are due to issues with the house, such as damp, or holes in the walls.

In all cases the first thing top do is speak to your Landlord.

What can I do about pests and vermin?

Different pests require different treatments and can be attracted by different issues.

Mice

The council deals with anything classed as detrimental to health for free, but mice do not count so you would be charged.

Mice can come to your house because of overflowing bins, food scraps and fleas from pets. If this is case in your situation, the landlord could charge you. 

Rats

Rats carry a health risks that other vermin (like mice) don’t. So, if you see a rat in your property let your landlord know immediately.

They should arrange for someone to come round (this should happen in 24-48 hours) or ask you to contact Leeds City Council Pest Control directly here.

This will cost, but your landlord should cover it unless the rats are attracted to your house because of overflowing bins or food scraps, then you will have to pay.

Bedbugs

Bedbugs are often picked up while travelling or staying in an hotel or bed and breakfast, and this may not be something the Landlord is obliged to deal with. However if you suspect bedbugs are present when you move in, speak to your landlord.

Silverfish

Silverfish are attracted to damp areas and are very common particularly in older houses.  They are unpleasant, but are not a hazard to health. If there is an infestation this is likely to be something the landlord should deal with - but again you must take steps to prevent damp and condensation from inside the house. 

Bees and Wasps

Solitary bees such as bumblebees will not cause any problems and do not form large colonies.  Honey bees form a hive in buildings. If there is a swarm they will normally move on after a short while. It is important not to harm pollinators such as bees if at all possible.  If you have bees you can contact a beekeeper for advice and in the case of swarming honey bees they may come and collect them.

Wasps can be more of a problem and can damage buildings. Your landlord should deal with wasps.

Fleas

Fleas are often caused by pets, or contact with animals, and as such landlords may not be responsible for dealing with them, unless they are present when you move in.

Other pests

You can find out about other pests and possible options here 

Preventing infestations

The council page above has some suggestions on preventing pests. Some of this is down to tenants, but other issues such as damp or holes where rodents are coming in are the responsibility of the Landlord.

If the problem seems to relate to another property, such as rubbish in a neighbours garden or commercial food waste speak to them and let them know.  If this does not help you must speak to your Landlord first, but you can report issues to the council.

If the problems continue, speak to Help and Support for more advice.