From 1 May 2008, West Dunbartonshire Council will be charging the Association for attending to pest control issues, such as dealing with rats, wasps, beetle infestatio etc.  The charge will be £30 plus VAT for each visit.  This was previously a free service from the local authority.

Pest problems can be a risk to your health and safety and so, as a householder, it is important that you recognise problems and know what to do if your home is affected.

The most common household pests are:

• Mice and rats - you may see signs of gnawing, tracks or droppings.
• Bees and wasps - they often build their nests in the eaves of buildings, under window-sills, in openings in exterior walls or chimneys.
• Beetles - there are many different types but the most comon household beetle is attracted to stored food such as flour, cereal, pasta, dried pet food, spices, etc.  They are most likely to appear when these foodstuffs go unused for long periods.
• Fleas - these parasites feed on blood of people and pets.  They are very small and you may only notice them by the small itchy red spots they leave on the skin.

Contact the Association by calling into the office at 1 Red Row, Renton, or contact us on 01389 721216 or you can contact us by email by clicking here.

If you notice pests in common areas, such as bin stores, contact the Association on 01389 721216 or by clicking here.  We may also be able to help after the infestation has been dealt with.  For example, we may be able to block up holes in skirting boards or kitchen units to stop mice from coming back in.

In cases of serious infestation we may be served with a notice under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949.  In these cases we are legally obliged to take steps to get rid of the pests and repair any damage they have caused.

Mice and rats will be deterred if you keep all refuse and food storage areas clean and keep food in sealed containers.  You can set traps or put down poison but these can be dangerous and you must follow the instructions provided, especially if you have small children.

Beetles can be prevented if you make sure food is properly stored and throw out anything that is past its sell-by date or that you have not used for a while.  Insect sprays are widely available but again make sure you follow the maker's instructions.

Always keep pets clean and get advice froma vet if you think your animal may have picked up fleas.

The Management Committee has agreed that should any pest infestation be caused by a tenant then the cost will be recharged tot he tenant.