Pest Control
A pest control specialist identifies, treats, and prevents infestations of insects, rodents, and other pests in residential and commercial properties. From rats and mice to wasps, bed bugs, and moths, they protect your home and health from unwanted visitors.
What does a pest control specialist do?
Pest control specialists handle a wide range of infestations, including:
- Rodent control (rats and mice) — trapping, baiting, and proofing
- Wasp nest removal and bee relocation advice
- Bed bug treatment (heat treatment and insecticide)
- Cockroach and ant treatment
- Moth and carpet beetle treatment
- Bird proofing (pigeons, gulls) and guano removal
- Squirrel, fox, and mole control
- Prevention advice and property proofing
Do pest controllers need qualifications?
Pest control is not a specifically licensed trade for most pest types. However, the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is the leading professional body, and BPCA members must meet training standards, carry a minimum of £2 million public liability insurance, and follow a code of conduct.
Professional pest controllers typically hold the RSPH (Royal Society for Public Health) Level 2 Award in Pest Management or the BPCA Certificate in Pest Management. BS EN 16636 is the European standard for pest management services.
For certain wildlife (bats, badgers, certain birds), work is regulated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and may require Natural England licences.
What to look for when hiring a pest controller
When choosing a pest control specialist, consider:
- BPCA membership — Members follow professional standards and carry adequate insurance.
- Survey before treatment — A good pest controller will identify the pest, assess the extent of infestation, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach — The best practitioners combine treatment with prevention advice (proofing, hygiene, habitat management).
- Follow-up visits — Effective pest control often requires multiple visits. Ask whether follow-ups are included in the price.
- Insurance — Minimum £2 million public liability insurance is standard for professional pest controllers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pest control cost?
Wasp nest removal costs £50–£100. Rodent treatment (typically 3 visits) costs £150–£300. Bed bug treatment costs £250–£500 for a standard room, with heat treatment costing more. Cockroach treatment costs £150–£300. Bird proofing costs £30–£60 per linear metre for netting or spikes.
How do I know if I have a rodent problem?
Common signs include droppings (dark, rice-sized for mice; larger and spindle-shaped for rats), gnaw marks on food packaging or cables, scratching noises in walls or ceilings (especially at night), greasy rub marks along skirting boards, and a distinctive musty smell. If you find droppings or hear noises, act quickly — rodents reproduce rapidly.