AHEAD of the Senedd elections in May, British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is calling on the next Welsh Government to do more to protect people in Wales from preventable pest problems in their homes.
In its new manifesto for public health pest management in Wales, the national trade body says no one should have to live with rats, cockroaches, flies or other pests because of poor housing conditions, slow repairs or inadequate waste management.
Housing, public health and environmental regulation are devolved to the Senedd.
BPCA is urging Welsh policymakers to make sure protections against pest problems apply to all renters, not just those in social housing.
The Association warned that pests in homes are not just a nuisance and can pose a risk to health.
Rodents can spread diseases, including leptospirosis, salmonella and listeria, while also causing damage by gnawing pipes and wiring. Cockroaches, flies, and other insects can spread pathogens, contaminate food and damage belongings.
Rosina Robson, Chief Exec of the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), said: “Too many people are still being left to deal with pest problems that could and should have been prevented.
“Where there are building defects, poor waste management or delays to repairs, infestations can quickly take hold. That has a real impact on people’s health, well-being, and quality of life.
“It should not matter whether someone lives in social housing, private rented housing or temporary accommodation. The risks posed by pests are the same, and the protections should be too.
“We want the next Welsh Government to recognise the danger pests pose in people’s homes and make sure everyone in Wales has the right to live in a decent home that is protected from avoidable infestations.”
BPCA’s manifesto calls on the next Welsh Government to:
- Recognise the danger that pests pose to the health and well-being of tenants
- Ensure protections for all renters, including people living in social rented, private rented and temporary accommodation
- Back a stronger public health approach to pest management in Wales.
The manifesto also highlights the wider role of professional pest management in protecting public health, food supply chains and the built environment across Wales.
BPCA says tackling pests properly means more than responding once an infestation has taken hold. Landlords and property managers also need to act on the advice of pest professionals, including improving communal waste disposal, repairing defects in buildings and addressing the conditions that allow pests to thrive.
Niall Gallagher, BPCA’s Technical Manager, added: “We wouldn’t accept pest activity in places such as factories or restaurants where food is prepared, and people should not be expected to put up with the same risks in their own homes.
“This is about prevention, public health and basic standards. Wales has an opportunity to lead the way and make sure fewer people are left living in misery because of pests.”
BPCA’s full manifesto, A manifesto for public health pest management in Wales, is available from the Association’s website.
