What do we mean by filthy and/or verminous properties?
Filthy or verminous premises are properties that are infested by vermin (including rats, mice, insects or parasites including their eggs, larvae and pupae) or in such a filthy or unwholesome condition as to be prejudicial to health (this usually means that there is a large amount of rotting food and/or human or animal excrement inside the property).
Such properties are frequently characterised by an accumulation of material that can make access to the premises difficult and that may present a physical or fire risk to the occupants or those of adjoining premises.
When is it a problem?
Filthy or verminous premises present a real risk to the public health, often by acting as shelter or food for rats, mice or other vermin that have a detrimental effect on people's wellbeing. Such properties may also start to adversely affecting neighbouring properties due to rotting smells, infestations and problems caused by poor repair.
We normally become aware of such cases by referral from Social Services or housing officers, although sometimes people slip through the net and only come to our attention when concerned neighbours or relatives contact us.
If you feel that your complaint falls into this category please complete this form.
Pest Control Guidance
The responsibility lies with the owner / occupant / landlord depending on the circumstances.
The Council’s Environmental Health Team (Regulatory Services) does not offer a pest control service for any type of pest removal or treatment (this include Rats), advice can be obtained via the
British Pest Control Association
If you live in Social Housing; Contact your Housing Officer.
Privately Rented: Contact your landlord / agent.
Privately Owned: Contact a Private Pest Control Company
If the infestation is coming from another Private Property, Park or Open Space, Council Owned Land or there is a significant accumulation of rubbish/bin bags which has led to the sighting of vermin please continue to complete the form.
