Who Is Responsible for Pest Control in Scotland Rented Homes?

If you’re renting a home in Scotland and dealing with pests like mice, rats, bedbugs, or cockroaches, you might wonder who is responsible for getting rid of the problem. Understanding your rights regarding pest control in Scottish rentals ensures safe, healthy living conditions and helps you take confident action if something goes wrong.

Pest Control Responsibilities in Scottish Rented Properties

Under Scottish law, both tenants and landlords have duties around maintaining a safe and habitable home. Pest problems are a key part of these standards, with specific legal frameworks in place.

Landlord's Legal Duties

• Landlords must ensure the property meets the "Repairing Standard"—meaning it should be wind- and watertight, with all installations in reasonable working order, and free from health hazards like infestations (Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 Part 1 Chapter 4).
• If pests (for example, rodents, cockroaches, or insects) are present due to conditions they control—such as broken drains, holes or damp—the landlord must fix the issue and arrange professional pest control.
• If multiple properties in a building are affected, your landlord may need to coordinate action through the council or property factor.

Tenant's Responsibilities

• As a tenant, you’re expected to keep your home reasonably clean and not cause pest problems by your actions or neglect (such as leaving food waste out).
• If an infestation results from your actions, you may be asked to arrange—and pay for—pest control.

Summary: In most cases, landlords are responsible for resolving pest infestations unless you have caused the problem through your own neglect.

What Should I Do If I Discover Pests in My Home?

• Notify your landlord or letting agent in writing as soon as you spot a pest problem. Give clear details and request prompt action.
• Take dated photos or videos documenting the issue if possible.
• Give your landlord reasonable time to respond and arrange treatment (usually a few days unless it’s an emergency).
• If you don’t get a reply, repeat your request and keep copies of all communications.

If the problem is urgent (for example, serious rodent infestation posing health risks), you can also contact your local council’s Environmental Health team for advice, as councils in Scotland have powers to require landlords to act (Scottish Government: Tenant Rights).

Escalating Your Complaint: The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)

If your landlord does not deal with the pest problem, you may apply to the official tribunal—First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)—for help.

Relevant Official Form: Application for Repairing Standard Enforcement Order

• Form: RS Application (Repairing Standard)
• When to use: If your landlord fails to carry out repairs—including dealing with pests or fixing issues causing infestations—you can use this form to ask the tribunal to order repairs.
• Example: If you have mice due to holes in walls and your landlord ignores your written requests to fix it, complete and submit the Repairing Standard Application Form with evidence such as emails and photos.
• Where to submit: First-tier Tribunal for Scotland: Repairing Standard Application

Your Rights Under Scottish Tenancy Law

Your right to live in a safe and healthy home—including one free from pests—is protected under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016, supported by the Repairing Standard in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006.¹

These laws set minimum standards and legal duties for both landlords and tenants.

FAQ: Scottish Pest Control and Rental Properties

1. Who pays for pest control in a Scottish rental?
   Pest control is usually the landlord’s responsibility if the infestation isn’t caused by the tenant’s neglect. You may have to pay if the problem was due to your own actions.
2. What if my landlord refuses to deal with pests?
   If your landlord ignores your written requests, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) using the Repairing Standard application form. They can order repairs or pest treatment.
3. How quickly must my landlord act?
   There’s no set timeframe in law, but for serious pests, landlords should act within a few days, especially if there’s a risk to health or safety. Always follow up in writing.
4. Can I end my tenancy because of pest problems?
   You can’t automatically end your tenancy, but you may have options if your home is seriously unfit or unsafe. Seek advice from Shelter Scotland or Citizens Advice before making decisions.
5. Does my local council have a role in pest control?
   Yes, councils can order landlords to address health hazards like pest infestations. Contact Environmental Health if your landlord doesn’t respond.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Apply if your landlord doesn’t fix pest problems or other repairs
• Shelter Scotland – Free advice on all tenants’ rights
• Citizens Advice Scotland – Help with dispute resolution and form-filling
• Scottish Government: Tenant Rights in Private Renting – Official Government guidance
• mygov.scot: Repairs in Private Rented Homes – Up-to-date guidance on the Repairing Standard and what to do if repairs aren’t done

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1. Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 – See Part 1 – Private Residential Tenancies; Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 – The Repairing Standard
2. First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Repairing Standard Application Form
3. Scottish Government – Tenant Rights in the Private Rented Sector

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