DISCLAIMER:

This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.

Simple terms explainer:

Councils must take reasonable steps to keep their district free from rats and mice. This includes carrying out inspections, investigating complaints, and destroying rats and mice on land they occupy. Councils must also enforce the responsibilities of landowners and occupiers by serving notices requiring action and, where necessary, carrying out pest control operations themselves and recovering costs. These measures help protect public health and prevent damage to property.

Legal status

Statutory


Duty category

Environmental health


Duty type

Public impact


Social determinant of health

Neighbourhood and environment

Emerging policy and legislation


0

Bodies with shared interest

Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS)
Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH)

Standards and frameworks


1