Vermin and Pest Infestation Claims
Written and reviewed by the RemedyBridge team · Last reviewed June 2026
Quick answer
If your rented home in England or Wales has rats, mice, cockroaches or other infestations linked to a defect in the building, and your landlord has not put it right within a reasonable time of being told, a specialist may be able to review whether you can claim. This is general information and a guide only.
Key points
- Landlords are responsible for many causes of pest or vermin infestation.
- You normally need to have reported it and given time to fix it.
- Dated photographs and written reports are the most useful evidence.
- Free routes are available first — complaints, the complaints process and your council.
About pest or vermin infestation
Problems involving pest or vermin infestation can affect your health, your belongings and your ability to use your home. Where they are caused by a defect the landlord is responsible for, and remain unresolved after being reported, they may support a claim.
What to do
- Report it to your landlord in writing and keep a copy.
- Take dated photographs and videos.
- Keep repair references and any replies.
- Use the free routes if it is not resolved.
You may not need us — free routes first
You can often resolve repairs for free. Depending on your situation you may be able to:
- report repairs to your landlord in writing and keep a dated copy;
- use your landlord’s formal complaints process;
- take dated photos and keep a record of what you reported and when;
- give your landlord a reasonable chance to put things right.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I have a claim?
- We can’t tell you that, and we never will on a web page. Take the free anonymous check to see whether your circumstances may be suitable for a specialist to review.
Sources
RemedyBridge provides a free initial check for housing disrepair problems in England & Wales. The result is a guide only and never tells you that you definitely have a claim. Checking your situation is free.
Not sure where you stand?
Take the free, anonymous check — no personal details needed to start.
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