Important information
- The Knowsley Council pest control service now charges for all treatments, including mice and rats. The charge for mice and rats is £24 (inclusive of VAT) and £61.20 (inclusive of VAT) for all other pests.
- The council has introduced these charges because it can no longer afford to provide the service for free. The majority of other councils charge for pest control, and the rates charged by the Knowsley Council are lower than those charged by commercial companies.
- The council is not legally bound to provide a free pest control service, and the responsibility for controlling pests lies with the owner or occupier of the premises or land where they are present.
- The charge for pest control covers a maximum of two visits for rats and mice, as most domestic infestations can be eradicated in two visits. If an infestation is heavy and more visits are required, there will be an additional charge.
- If you have spotted mice or rats on your property but cannot afford the charge for a pest control visit, there are a number of simple things you can do to prevent or control the infestation yourself. Traps and baits are widely available at DIY stores and garden centres.
- If you are a tenant, your landlord may be responsible for paying for pest control treatment. This will depend on the terms of your tenancy agreement, whether the infestation pre-dated you moving in, and whether the problem has been made worse by disrepair or caused by your actions.
- If you have made a pest control appointment and need to cancel, you will receive a full refund if you give at least 24 hours' notice. There will be no refund for cancellations made on the day of the visit or if you are not at home when the operative calls.
- The council is working with social landlords to improve tenancy management and minimise the risk of infestation.