Pest control - frequently asked questions

1. Why do I have to pay for Pest Control Treatments? Are the costs not included in my Council Tax?

The law does not require the Council to provide a pest control service for non public health related pests. Knowsley Council offers residents a high quality, competitively priced service - often cheaper than the majority of private pest control companies. Following a review of budgets and service provision the Council has agreed to introduce charges for the treatment non public health related pests from 16 July, 2010.

Also, under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949, the Council is required to keep their districts free from rats and mice by carrying out periodic inspections, and destroying rats and mice on Local Authority property and land. Where vermin are found on privately owned land or premises, it is the responsibility of the owner/ occupier to deal with the infestation. The Council can serve legal notice to ensure that this is done.

2. How quickly can you respond to my problem?

We will try to respond to all requests, such as a live rat in the occupied living area of a building on the same day. We will generally respond to all other requests within one working day, although this can be longer in the summer months. You can enquire about appointments and response times by ringing: 0151 443 2400.

3. Do you provide an out of hours service, as I work full time?

We cannot respond to routine pest control requests out of hours.

4. How long will I have to wait for an appointment?

Pest control visits are allocated using our booking system. We aim to treat rats in a domestic property within one working day. Pressures on the service are seasonal, so there can be waiting lists, depending on the time of year.

5. How much does it cost?

A £41.70 charge will be made for the treatment of wasps, bees, ants and other garden insects. The treatment of rats and mice remains free.

Household pest control charges – 2012/2013 (All charges include VAT at 20%)

Rats and mice (per course of treatment): free
Wasps, ants and any crawling insects: £41.70
Any other pest related enquiries please contact 0151 443 2400 for a referral to our Pest Control team

6. What can I do if I'm having a problem with foxes?

Knowsley Borough Council does not provide a service for fox problems as they are not classed as vermin. If you are having problems with foxes you might find the following website useful www.thefoxwebsite.org

7. How do I make a payment?

We require payment in advance for all visits by our Pest Control Officers. Payment can be made via telephone using credit/debit card, or in cash at our One Stop Shops.

8. Can I book a set appointment time?

On booking an appointment you will be offered a date (Monday to Fridays only). An officer will visit your property on between 8am – 3.30pm Monday to Thursday and 8am – 2.30 Friday. A responsible person over the age of 16 must be present during the visit.

9. Service standards

We will do our best to make sure we deliver this service to you in the timescales given below. Due to increases in demand these may not always be met.

We aim to treat problems inside your premises within one working day
We aim to treat problems outside your premises with one working day