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If you are a council tenant and are experiencing pest related issues, please contact our contact centre on 01620 827827.
For private households and commercial businesses
At present, we do not provide an external pest control service, however later this year this service will become available for both private households and commercial businesses.
In the meantime, if you are experiencing pest related issues please contact a private pest control contractor. You can find details of these at The British Pest Control Association (BCPA).
Pests in public places
Our Environmental Protection team investigates complaints from members of the public about pests in public places which may be a threat to public health.
Where necessary, the team has enforcement powers to ensure that owners / occupiers of premises take action to deal with pests.
Pests we do not deal with
There are some types of pests that we do not deal with, this may be due to some species being protected by law.
We can however offer advice on how to deter/prevent them.
See details below on pests that we do not deal with and can provide advice only on.
Pests we do not deal with
Bats
We do not offer any treatment for bats.
Bats are a species that are protected by law, and it is illegal to disturb them. They receive full protection under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended).
Many bat species have adapted to living in open loft spaces or crevices within buildings, they are usually only seasonal visitors to homes for only four or five months of the year.
If you think you have bats in your home, and they are causing a public health or safety concern please contact NatureScot using the details below.
Bees are an essential part of our eco-system and are currently facing threat from disease and pesticides.
As bees are generally not aggressive, we would advise they are left alone.
We would however arrange a visit to provide advice on species of bees and swarms as in some cases these may need to be removed.
East Lothian Beekeepers Association will remove honeybeeswarms, please visit their website for relevant contact numbers or email them at eastlothianbeekeppers@gmail.com
Foxes
We do not offer any treatment for foxes.
Deterrence and proofing are the most effective ways to stop foxes becoming established around your property.
Our Pest control officers can arrange a visit, assess the situation, and offer practical advice on how to deter and prevent fox activity.
Gulls
We do not offer any treatment for gulls.
All wild birds in Scotland are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended).
Some species, especially those that are rare or vulnerable, receive extra protection during key times such as the breeding season. Even so, there are still steps that can be taken when birds are causing problems.
We have no statutory duty to take action against gulls and cannot force the owners or occupiers of buildings to take appropriate action to reduce gull numbers.
We can visit and advise on effective deterrents, as well as offer guidance to households on responsible bird feeding.
Slugs
We do not offer any treatment for slugs.
Slugs are common garden pests and may occasionally enter properties, particularly in damp areas such as cellars.
Although their appearance can be unpleasant, they are harmless and generally pose only a minor nuisance.
The most effective way to reduce slug activity is to address any sources of dampness around the property and clearing nearby vegetation and outdoor debris can also help minimise their presence.
If you are unsure what may be attracting them indoors, we can arrange a visit to assess the situation and provide practical, professional advice on preventing further slug activity.
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