Advice for homeowners and business owners

You'll find useful advice for reducing the risk of pests in your home or business here.

Rats and mice

fill in any holes in door or window frames, skirting boards, drainpipes and water and central heating pipes
cover ventilation bricks with wire mesh
regularly clear out the drain trap in your garden
always cover food and store in sealed containers
cut grass and hedges regularly
look out for droppings, nests and signs of gnawing, usually near larders and cupboards, sinks, hot presses, lofts, garages or sheds
never leave rubbish lying around
don't leave food scraps out for birds, even on bird tables.

get any pets regularly treated by a vet for signs of fleas
groom your pet outdoors to prevent fleas getting into your home
vacuum your house regularly and thoroughly
wash animal bedding regularly using a mild detergent
spray floor surfaces, particularly cracks and crevices, with an anti-flea spray, making sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions.

check old or secondhand furniture for signs of infestation
wash and vacuum bedding regularly
check your luggage and clothing after arriving back from holiday for signs of bedbug activity.

always store leftover food in sealed containers
never leave rubbish or food waste lying around
mend cracks, holes, loose wallpaper and broken tiles
seal holes in door or window frames, skirting boards, drainpipes and water and central heating pipes to prevent cockroaches getting in.