How long does a wasp nest take to die after treatment? +
After a pest controller treats a wasp nest, the colony will typically die within 24 to 48 hours. You may notice increased wasp activity around the nest entrance immediately after treatment — this is normal as returning wasps carry the insecticide inside. Keep windows closed and avoid approaching the nest during this period. The nest does not need to be physically removed once treated.
Do landlords have to pay for pest control in UK? +
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure of the property, which includes blocking pest entry points such as gaps around pipes and damaged air bricks. If a pest infestation is caused by structural defects, the landlord must arrange and pay for treatment. If the tenant has caused the infestation through poor hygiene or waste management, the cost may fall to the tenant.
Are cockroaches in my home a health risk? +
Cockroaches are a serious health hazard. They carry bacteria including Salmonella, E. coli and Staphylococcus, and their droppings and shed skins are a known trigger for asthma and allergies, particularly in children. A single cockroach sighting usually indicates a larger hidden population. Contact a pest controller immediately — cockroaches breed rapidly and an infestation will worsen quickly without professional treatment.
Will the pest controller need to visit more than once? +
Most pest treatments require at least two visits. The first visit involves a survey, identification of the pest species, and initial treatment. Follow-up visits — typically one to three weeks later — check whether the treatment has worked, replenish bait stations if needed, and carry out proofing to prevent re-infestation. Wasp nest treatment is the exception, as a single visit is usually sufficient.
What should I do if I think I have bed bugs? +
Check your mattress seams, headboard joints and bed frame crevices for small dark spots (faecal marks) and tiny rust-coloured blood stains on your sheets. Bed bugs are 4 to 5mm long, flat and brown — they hide during the day and feed at night. Do not throw away your mattress or use shop-bought sprays, as this often spreads the infestation to other rooms. Contact a professional pest controller who specialises in bed bug treatment.
How long does it take to get rid of rats in UK? +
A typical rat treatment programme in UK takes two to four weeks from start to finish. The pest controller will lay rodenticide bait on the first visit, then return after 7 to 10 days to check bait take, replace stations and block any identified entry points. A final visit confirms the infestation has been eliminated. Severe infestations in older properties may take longer.