Why blocks need a joined-up approach
Mice, cockroaches and bed bugs travel between flats along pipe boxing, risers, lift shafts and gaps in floors and ceilings. If only one flat is treated, the pests simply move next door and come back later. Block-wide treatment, with access to affected flats and those around them, is far more effective.
Common problems in South London blocks
- Mice in Victorian conversions and mansion blocks, moving through floor voids
- German cockroaches in post-war and 1960s to 1970s estates with shared heating ducts
- Rats in bin stores, under ground-floor flats and around communal gardens
- Bed bugs spreading between flats in HMOs and high-turnover blocks
- Pigeons nesting on balconies, ledges and roofs
- Gulls on flat roofs near the river
How we work with managing agents
- Survey of communal areas, bin stores, risers, plant rooms and the flats that have reported problems
- Resident letters explaining the treatment and how to prepare, ready for you to send
- Coordinated access to treat affected flats and their neighbours on the same days
- Communal treatment and proofing in risers, bin stores and service areas
- Follow-ups and a block report showing progress flat by flat
Bin stores
Overflowing or damaged bin stores are the main source of rats around blocks. We advise on door seals, bin lids, cleaning and collection frequency, and place external bait stations where needed.
Regular monitoring
For larger blocks, a contract with scheduled visits to communal areas keeps activity low and gives the managing agent regular reports for residents and freeholders.
Questions and answers
Do you need access to every flat?
Not always. We need the affected flats and those immediately around them. We will advise which flats after the survey.
Can you write to residents for us?
Yes. We provide a resident letter explaining the treatment and preparation, which you can send out.
Who pays for pest control in a block?
That depends on the lease and the cause. Communal areas are normally covered by the service charge. Check the lease or ask your managing agent.
Related pages
This page is general information, last reviewed on 19 October 2026. It is not a substitute for an on-site inspection.