Pests from neighbouring properties
If you’re experiencing issues with rats originating from a neighbouring property or land that you do not occupy, Winchester City Council’s Environmental Protection Team has legal powers under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949 to take action.
This legislation allows the Council to require landowners or occupiers to take necessary steps to eliminate rat or mouse infestations.
This legislation allows the Council to require landowners or occupiers to take necessary steps to eliminate rat or mouse infestations.
If you suspect a nearby property or land is infested, please contact Environmental Health:
- Telephone: 01962 848 097
- Email: eh@winchester.gov.uk
When reporting a problem, please provide:
- Your name, address, and telephone number
- The address of the affected property or land
- Whether the property is occupied or vacant
- A description of the waste or conditions causing concern
Once a complaint is received, an officer will investigate and may inspect neighbouring properties to assess:
- The presence of food sources that may attract vermin
- Any harbourage (nesting areas) for rats or mice
If evidence is found, the officer may issue a legal notice requiring the owner or occupier to remove the attractants or nesting materials.
Please note: Overgrown gardens or the accumulation of non-organic waste (e.g. fridges, car parts, rubble, furniture) are generally not enforceable under this legislation unless they are directly contributing to a vermin issue.
If rats are nesting on land you own or occupy, it is your responsibility to carry out effective pest control under the same Act. However, the Council can investigate neighbouring properties if there is evidence that external factors (like food sources) are contributing to the problem.
For pest control services, including treatment options and pricing, visit the Winchester City Council Pest Control page.