What is Integrated Pest Management?
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a preventative and responsible approach to controlling pests such as rodents and insects. It focuses on stopping pest problems before they start by improving cleanliness, reducing access to food and shelter, and maintaining buildings properly.
IPM reduces the need for pesticides and helps protect people, pets, and the environment. Any treatments used are applied safely and in line with UK regulations and best practice. However, for successful pest programmes we often need tenants and landlords to play their part in maintain properties, cleanliness and housekeeping in areas where pests are present.
How You Can Prevent the Spread of Pest Borne Diseases to Protect Occupants
Keep your home clean
- Clean food preparation areas and surfaces with suitable products before use each time.
- Clean food spills promptly
- Store food in sealed containers
- Empty bins regularly and keep lids closed
- Reduce clutter, especially in cupboards and storage areas
- Keep balconies, gardens, and shared spaces tidy
Reduce damp and moisture
- Report leaking taps or pipes
- Avoid standing water indoors or outdoors
- Use extractor fans or ventilate kitchens and bathrooms
- Do not block air brick / vents with materials that prevent air flow
Prevent pests getting in
- Keep doors and windows closed where possible
- Cover air bricks or vents with breathable rodent / insect mesh only
- Inspect any boxes brought in from outside areas including sheds and loft spaces
Look out for signs of pests
- Droppings, gnaw marks, or nests
- Regular insect activity indoors
- Scratching noises in walls or ceilings
- Unusual smells
⚠️ Do not use unapproved pest control products or methods including disturbing pests, nests, or droppings. Correct PPE & RPE should be warn when handling any items contaminated with pest faeces or urine. Also, PPE & RPE should always be worn when handling or disposing of pest carcasses.
Reporting Pest Problems
Reporting helps prevent pest issues from spreading and can add additional context to our treatment process and actions.
Prompt reporting helps prevent pest problems from worsening and reduces health risks.
If you notice pest activity or conditions that could attract pests, please report this to us as soon as possible. When reporting, try to include:
- The type of pest (if known)
- The exact location (room, flat number, communal area, or outdoor space)
- The date and time the issue was noticed
- Any photographs, if safe to provide
Reports can be made via:
- Contacting your landlord, site management or facilities team
- Contact Predator Pest Solutions via email or telephone on info@predatorpestsolutions.co.uk or 0800 112 34 80
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Pest problems can be stressful and may affect your mental health. Your patterns of daily living including providing access to food, shelter for pests may be continuing and contributing to pests in your home. If you feel anxious, distressed or feel like you are unable to maintain your property, please seek support.
You could:
- Speak to your GP
- Contact a mental health charity for confidential support
Some examples of UK support include:
- Mind
- Samaritans (24/7)
- NHS Talking Therapies
