Rats, Roaches, and Responsibility: Pest Infestations in Rented Homes

Pest infestations are among the most distressing and unhygienic problems a tenant can face. Whether it’s rats scuttling in the attic or cockroaches crawling in the kitchen, pests don’t just create discomfort — they pose serious health risks and indicate a failure in property upkeep. As a tenant, you have legal rights, and your landlord has legal responsibilities. If you’re living with a pest problem, it may be a sign of housing disrepair.

In this article, we’ll explore the causes of pest infestations in rented homes, your legal protections, and how a housing disrepair specialist can help you take action when your landlord won’t.

Why Pest Infestations Happen

Infestations of rats, mice, cockroaches, bedbugs, or other pests typically occur due to underlying maintenance issues, such as:

• Broken windows or doors that allow entry

• Gaps in walls, flooring, or roofing

• Leaky pipes causing damp areas

• Poor hygiene in communal areas

• Overflowing bins or uncollected waste

• Structural disrepair that allows nesting

Pests are not just annoying — they bring real health dangers. Rats and cockroaches can spread diseases like salmonella and E. coli, while their droppings, urine, and nesting materials can contaminate food and surfaces. Cockroach allergens are known to trigger asthma and other respiratory problems.

The Landlord’s Responsibility

In the UK, landlords are legally obligated to keep rental properties in a condition that is safe, clean, and free from health hazards. Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, a property must be fit to live in from day one of the tenancy and throughout.

If pest infestations are due to disrepair, such as:

• Holes or structural gaps

• Poor sanitation in shared spaces

• Leaking water that attracts pests

• Damaged waste disposal systems

...then it is your landlord’s responsibility to take prompt action. They must fix the root causes and ensure the infestation is professionally treated.

When Tenants Are Responsible

There are some cases where tenants may be partially responsible — for instance, if pests are attracted due to poor cleanliness or if waste is not disposed of properly inside the rented space.

However, the burden of proof lies with the landlord. If you have been living responsibly and pests are still a problem, chances are it's due to a maintenance or structural issue. That's when you need to get a housing disrepair specialist involved.

What You Should Do First

If you notice a pest problem:

1. Document the Issue

   • Take photos or videos of pests or evidence (droppings, nests, damaged food).

   • Keep a record of any physical or health symptoms resulting from the infestation.

2. Inform Your Landlord in Writing

   • Always send a written report — ideally by email — so there’s a clear record.

   • Be specific: note the type of pests, when you noticed them, and where.

3. Request a Timely Response

   • For serious infestations, your landlord should act within days, not weeks.

How a Housing Disrepair Specialist Can Help

If your landlord delays or ignores your report, it’s time to involve a professional. A housing disrepair specialist can:

• Assess whether the infestation stems from disrepair

• Demand that your landlord fixes the root causes

• Help you file a housing disrepair claim

• Secure compensation for your inconvenience, health issues, or damaged belongings

Many housing disrepair specialists offer no-win, no-fee services, meaning you only pay if they win your case — removing financial risk for you.

What You May Be Entitled To

If pests have caused damage or illness due to your landlord's negligence, you may be eligible for:

• Compensation for damaged property (food, clothes, furniture)

• Medical costs if you or your family became sick

• Emotional distress caused by living in unhygienic conditions

• Loss of income (e.g., if you missed work due to illness)

• Professional pest control costs (if you had to pay out of pocket)

A qualified housing disrepair specialist can assess your case and calculate what you’re owed.

Health Risks You Shouldn't Ignore

Pests are not just unpleasant — they are dangerous. Prolonged exposure to infestations can lead to:

• Skin irritations and rashes

• Allergic reactions

• Respiratory issues, especially in children

• Gastrointestinal illnesses from contaminated food

The longer an infestation is left untreated, the more serious the risks. If your landlord refuses to act, the law is on your side — and so are the experts.

Final Thoughts

No tenant should be forced to live in a pest-infested home. Whether it’s rats in the attic or cockroaches in the cupboards, you have a right to a safe and habitable living space. When your landlord fails to meet that standard, a housing disrepair specialist can help you stand up for your rights and claim the repairs and compensation you deserve.

No tenant should be forced to live in unsafe or unhealthy conditions. If your landlord isn’t fixing serious issues, contact the Housing Disrepair Team now. Our specialists are ready to listen and act on your behalf.