Mice in house and landlord refusing to help!

klava2005

I've discovered mice in my house and my landlord is refusing to help. Does anyone know what the rules are on this? Surely given that I am paying rent there is some requirement for them to step in??? Seems completely backward. I was thinking to buy some mouse traps and take it off my next rent or reducing rent until it is resolved.

Reply 1

klava2005

In actual fact I did come across this guide to mice which does mention that landlords are generally responsible. But it doesn't say that this is always true plus what happens if they flat out refuse like is the case here? Sorry for this, but so frustrating and worn down by the system. I know I'm in the right but have no way of following through on it. Can't afford proper advice and have no access to lawyers etc.

Reply 2

ageshallnot

Try your local Citizens Advice Bureau. And check your rental contract.

Reply 3

Genesiss

Original post

by klava2005

Your landlord must deal with a pest infestation if it's caused by a repair that they must fix. They must also make sure your home is fit to live in during the whole tenancy. If pests were there when you moved in they should sort this out.

It's unlikely to be your responsibility unless you have done something that encourages pests.
For example, make sure you:

•

cover your bins

•

do not leave food or rubbish out

•

use flea treatment on your pets

If your landlord does not sort the problem out You could:

get advice from the council's pest control team; or
complain to the council and ask for an inspection.

Do not withhold your rent. If you pay for pest control and want to take the money off your rent, try to negotiate a rent reduction instead. You might be able to claim compensation for disruption and damage to your things.

i'll let you read through the rest of the procedure in links below (one for england, one for scotland)

https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/repairs/pests_and_vermin_infestations_in_rented_homes?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_eDdv_GmiwMVjJRQBh2jNj2NEAAYASAAEgKC-_D_BwE

https://scotland.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/repairs/private/responsibilities

Reply 4

klava2005

Thanks for the suggestions. The landlord did actually end up coming round setting up some poison traps and now they are gone. At least for now.

Reply 5

random_matt

Hopefully they are not within the walls; that would be a serious problem.

Reply 6

J2002

I've had mice in my place before, and it was a nightmare. Even after setting traps, they kept coming back, which made me realize they were getting in through small gaps I hadn’t noticed.

If the landlords refuse to help, push for it legally or get professional help.

If it happens again, you might want to get an expert to check for entry points and seal them properly. I used Pest Control Barrie Exterminator, and they did a thorough job making sure the issue didn’t return.