Q: What Are the New Charges for Pest Control Visits?
Pest control charging
FAQs
Q: What are the new charges for pest control visits?
A: From 1 April 2017, the charges are as follows:
Mice / rats: £24 (inclusive of VAT)
Wasps, ants and fleas: £48.50(inclusive of VAT)
Q: Why are you introducing charges for pest control visits to treat mice and rats?
A: The current financial climate has meant that the council can no longer afford to provide pest control treatments for mice and rats free of charge. The majority of neighbouring local authorities also charge for this service, and the rate charged in Knowsley is well below the rate charged by commercial companies and represents good value for money.
Q: Mice and rat infestations are a risk to public health so you should not be charging for this service.
A: The council is not legally bound to directly provide a pest control service whether free or at a charge. The legal responsibility for controlling pests lies with the owner or occupier of the premises or land on which they are present.
Q: Will this charge result in an increase in mice and rat infestations?
A: To reduce the risks of an increase in infestations, we will be embarking on a proactive inspection and treatment approach across the borough, treating mice and rats on council-owned property and land. We will also be linking with Environmental Health and Consumer Protection to monitor the situation, and Registered Social Landlord representatives to improve tenancy management. We also hope the introduction of a charging scheme will encourage householders to take responsibility for reducing the likelihood of pest infestations.
Q: What is included in the price?
A: The charge covers a maximum of two visits for rats and mice as most domestic infestations can be eradicated in two visits. Where an infestation is heavy and more visits are required, these will be charged as a new visit at the same fee.
Q: I’ve spotted mice/rats on my property, but can’t afford the charge for a pest control visit. What should I do?
A: There are a number of simple things householders can do to prevent mice/rat infestations or the problem can be controlled using traps or baits widely available at DIY stores or garden centres. A detailed information leaflet is available on our website, search pest control.
Q: Are there concessions available?
A: As the charges are already subsidised by the council, no concessions are offered, however any claims of financial hardship will be assessed on an individual basis.
Q: I’m a tenant, is my landlord responsible for paying for my pest control treatment?
A: This will depend on a number of things:
-Does your tenancy agreement state this
-Did the infestation pre-date you moving in
-Has the problem been made worse by disrepair or has the problem been caused by your actions
The council will work with social landlords to improve tenancy management and minimise the risk of infestation.
Q: I’ve made a pest control appointment, but need to cancel – do I receive a refund?
A: We will provide a full refund for all cancellations (first visits only) received with at least 24 hours’ notice
Q: I was not at home when the pest control operative called – can I have a refund?
A; There will be no refund for cancellations made on the day of the scheduled visit or if the occupier is not at home when the operative calls. A refund will not be given for a failed treatment due to cancellation or refusal of a second visit.