Proofing that landowners must do in properties

We do not carry out proofing and repairs to prevent  pests. 

These are normally the building manager or landlord's responsibility. 

If a pest control officer sees work that's needed in a landlord / association's property that we work with, they will report it to them. 

If a social or private landlord refuses or fails to carry out proofing works in a reasonable timeframe, you should contact the council’s Health and Housing Team on 020 7364 5008 or email: environmental.health@towerhamlets.gov.uk 

Toxic bait in external areas to control rodents

It is illegal to use rodenticide bait to treat a rat infestation in external open areas, unless it's associated with a building.

These are areas that are open to the public, domestic animals and non-target wildlife.

Examples of this are:

• parks
• street environments
• waterside

Protect wildlife and non-target animals

We strongly advise using the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) code.

We use this as our guiding principle when treating with rodenticide.

Landowner responsibilities for outdoor rodent control

We will investigate all rat infestation reports. If rats are found, landowners need to take measures for baiting to work properly. 

Food sources, shelter and access points need to be removed for baiting to be effective.

This must be done by:

• removing food sources
• removing shelter
• carrying out building and drainage repairs

Examples of building and drainage repairs to control rats:

• cleaning areas of litter
• preventing fly-tipping
• improving waste storage and removal
• checking and repairing sewers and drains.

If these measures do not control the infestation, pest control workers can apply non-toxic baits.

For more information, please see the BPCA website.

Glue boards and traps banned

These are now illegal to use to catch rodents unless you have a licence from Natural England.

If you see illegal use or sales of these products, please report it to the RSPCA.