Pest Advice
Residents across Glasgow are being reminded of simple steps they can take to help prevent pest problems in their homes and shared spaces. Read on for some useful tips.
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While pest control has become an increasing challenge across the entirety of Glasgow in recent years and requires thorough and effective management by various bodies alongside residents, it can always be useful to remind people of simple but effective steps they can take to help prevent and reduce pest problems in their homes and communal areas. Seasonal changes, waste buildup, and food storage habits can all contribute to an increase in pests - in particular rodents such as rats or mice. Working together as a community can make a significant difference in keeping homes safe, clean and comfortable.
The Association fully recognises that despite many residents taking preventative steps against pest infestations, mice and rats may still be present in the area and therefore pose a problem for many in the wider area.
If you need to report a rodent problem in a residential home, you can contact Glasgow City Council at: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/article/3970/Report-a-Pest-Control-Problem or call 0141 287 1059. Please note that this service does not cover other pests such as insects, and in such cases you should report it to our Association directly.
Use the collapsible menu below to look at some key advice and information.
One of the most effective ways to deter pests is to eliminate access to food and water sources. Residents are encouraged to store all food in sealed containers and to avoid leaving food - or pet food - out overnight. Regularly cleaning kitchen surfaces, sweeping floors and promptly washing dishes can also help reduce attractants.
Bins should be kept closed at all times, and waste should be disposed of regularly using the correct collection services. Any spillage in communal bin areas should be reported or cleaned up where possible to prevent attracting vermin. The Association's Estate Caretakers and Close/Stair Cleaners are often in the area, but residents are asked to ensure the area is kept tidy in between their visits.
Leaving bulky waste such as old furniture or appliances not only becomes a hygiene issue but also creates a potential home or breeding ground for pests.
We would encourage all residents to dispose of bulky waste by contacting Glasgow City Council to request an uplift at: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/article/1519/Collection-of-Bulky-Waste-Items
Bulk waste left in communal areas that cannot be traced back to an individual can sometimes result in the Association stepping in to maintain the upkeep of the area. While we appreciate the need do this, it uses up valuable resources that could otherwise be spent on delivering other improvements for residents in the area.
Small gaps and cracks can provide easy access for pests - which can fit through remarkably small openings. In some cases these entry points may be in the fabric of the building itself, such as the stonework or external pipes and in other cases it could be gaps in skirting boards within individual homes.
The Association appreciates that residents who report pest activity often still maintain very hygienic homes, and where there are structural issues enabling entry into the building, we will work constructively with our residents to address the problem.
Residents are advised to report any such issues.