Is a wasp nest near my front door dangerous? +
Yes — a wasp nest near a frequently used entrance is a genuine safety risk, particularly for children, elderly people and anyone with a wasp sting allergy. Wasps become aggressive when they feel their nest is threatened, and multiple stings can cause anaphylactic shock in allergic individuals. Do not attempt to block the nest entrance or spray it with household products. Call a pest controller for safe removal.
Can pest control help with moth damage to my clothes? +
Yes — if you are finding holes in wool, silk or cashmere garments, you likely have a clothes moth infestation. A pest controller can identify the species, locate the source (often in dark undisturbed areas like wardrobe corners or under furniture), and apply targeted treatment. Prevention includes regular vacuuming, washing clothes before long-term storage, and using cedar wood or lavender sachets as natural deterrents.
How long does it take to get rid of rats in Brighton and Hove? +
A typical rat treatment programme in Brighton and Hove takes two to four weeks from start to finish. The pest controller will lay rodenticide bait on the first visit, then return after 7 to 10 days to check bait take, replace stations and block any identified entry points. A final visit confirms the infestation has been eliminated. Severe infestations in older properties may take longer.
Do landlords have to pay for pest control in Brighton and Hove? +
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure of the property, which includes blocking pest entry points such as gaps around pipes and damaged air bricks. If a pest infestation is caused by structural defects, the landlord must arrange and pay for treatment. If the tenant has caused the infestation through poor hygiene or waste management, the cost may fall to the tenant.
Is pest control safe for my pets? +
Professional pest controllers take pet safety seriously. Rodenticide bait stations are tamper-resistant and designed so that cats and dogs cannot access the poison inside. For spray treatments such as flea or cockroach control, your pest controller will advise you to remove pets from the treated area until the product has dried — typically two to four hours. Fish tanks should be covered during any spray treatment, as fish are highly sensitive to insecticides.
Are cockroaches in my home a health risk? +
Cockroaches are a serious health hazard. They carry bacteria including Salmonella, E. coli and Staphylococcus, and their droppings and shed skins are a known trigger for asthma and allergies, particularly in children. A single cockroach sighting usually indicates a larger hidden population. Contact a pest controller immediately — cockroaches breed rapidly and an infestation will worsen quickly without professional treatment.