Free pest control service offered by Bolton council

The service will be available to residents who own their own homes, and those living in private rented accommodation.

Communication with social landlords, who have some of their own pest arrangements, is also on-going.

The free home service, which comes into effect on April 1 2024, covers rats and mice which pose a significant risk to public health.

In addition to the health risks, rodents can cause significant structural damage to homes by gnawing under floorboards, within stud walls and drywall linings, or by making holes in loft insulation which can cause condensation and rot in the joists.

If mice and rats chew through plastic pipes it can also lead to damp, or flooding whilst chewing through electrical cables could cause significant fire risks.

Control of pests such as cockroaches, bed bugs and fleas will remain a paid for service for residents.

If you live in social housing, then your registered landlord is responsible for pest control.

The council’s pest control team also offers a paid service for businesses.

Cllr Sue Haworth, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, said: “Offering pest control for rodents as a free service means more residents in the borough can eradicate vermin from their homes, regardless of their financial situation.

“This commitment to tackling pest problems contributes to making the borough cleaner and greener which is one of this council’s main priorities.

“This is in addition to the priority of protecting public health by reducing the spread of disease.

“The council also recognises that rats and mice in the home area often causes mental stress and a decline in wellbeing.

“To help prevent pest problems we urge all residents to dispose of their waste properly, in closed bins and not to leave waste outside in bags.”

To contact the team, or to find out more, visit https://www.bolton.gov.uk/animals-pests/pest-control