The general position in England
Landlords are generally expected to keep their properties safe and free from hazards, and to deal with infestations that come from the structure or common parts of a building, such as gaps in the fabric, damaged drains or communal bin stores. Tenants are usually expected to keep the property reasonably clean and to report problems promptly.
Since the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, rented homes in England must be fit for human habitation, and infestations can be one of the factors that matter. Local councils have powers to act on hazards in rented housing and can take action against landlords.
If you are a tenant
- Report the problem to your landlord or agent in writing, with photos and dates
- Keep copies of everything, and note how the pests appeared
- Keep the property clean and avoid storing food or rubbish in ways that attract pests
- Allow access for treatment
- If nothing happens, contact your local council's environmental health or housing team
If you are a landlord
- Act quickly when a report arrives, as delay allows infestations to spread and damages the property
- Arrange professional inspection and treatment, and proofing where the building needs it
- Keep records of dates, invoices and treatments
- In shared buildings, coordinate treatment for all affected flats
- Make sure tenants know how to prevent recurrences
Bed bugs, cockroaches and rodents
Bed bugs spread by travel and can be brought in by tenants or previous occupiers, which can make responsibility less clear cut. Rodents and cockroaches in shared buildings often come through the structure or from neighbouring flats, which points to the landlord. Written records help settle questions.
Occupiers and the council
Under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949, occupiers are expected to notify their local authority if rats or mice are present in substantial numbers. Councils may serve notices where there is an infestation. Local authority pest control services and charges vary, so check with your own council.
Steps for tenants
- Take photos of the pests, droppings or damage, with dates
- Report the problem to your landlord or letting agent in writing, by email or through their repair portal
- Keep food sealed and the home as clear as possible so treatment can work
- Give access for inspection and treatment, and follow the preparation instructions
- If nothing happens within a reasonable time and the problem is serious, contact your council's private housing or environmental health team
Steps for landlords
- Respond quickly and arrange an inspection
- Ask the pest controller to note entry points, structural issues and anything linked to the tenant's use of the property
- Carry out proofing and repairs, not just treatment, so the problem does not come back
- Keep the reports with your property records
Southwark Pests works with landlords and letting agents across South London.
Related pages
This page is general information, last reviewed on 19 October 2026. It is not a substitute for an on-site inspection.