Mice – Is it the Landlords or Tenants responsibility?

As a landlord you will want to have a property free from mice or rats to help retain regular tenancy and prevent property damage.

As a tenant you don't want the stress and disease that these invaders bring.

Some Landlords are not aware that they have a legal responsibility under the Housing Act 2004 to provide a property that is fit for habitation and in a state of good repair as well as having further legal responsibilities to ensure their properties do not permit the ingress of rodents under the Pest Prevention Act 1949

Rodents and in particular mice and rats are also registered pests under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1974 due to their ability to contaminate foods, spread disease and damage electrical wires and service pipework.

This means a mice infestation of any description will most likely contravene either Act and point liability towards the landlord but it does depend upon the circumstances involved including:

• whether there is anything relevant in the tenancy agreement
• whether the property was already infested before the tenant moved in, or was caused by a structural defect or disrepair (in which case the landlord may be liable)
• whether the infestation may have resulted from some act or omission of the tenant e.g. failure to clear refuse (in which case the tenant may be responsible)

If in doubt, the tenant or landlord can contact their local authorities Environmental Health department who have the powers to ensure action is taken by the responsible party

This is where we can help. For a fixed annual cost, Superproof Ltd will eradicate a mice infestation on the first visit and together with rolling annual certification ensure a property is kept mice free.

Engaging Superproof Ltd. to mice proof rented properties ensures both landlords and tenants alike have peace of mind that the property was mice free at the beginning, duration and end of tenancy as well as avoiding the significant costs and stresses associated with dissatisfied tenants, repudiation, reduced rent & compensation.

Rolling annual certification ensures the landlord is fully responsible under all current legislation as well as ensuring that there will be no additional cost to the landlord should an infestation occur - simply contact Superproof Ltd. and we will attend free of charge under our 1 year guarantee.

Call us today for more information and a free no obligation survey or quote.