Q: My tenant has mice! What should I do?
A: First of all, your tenant should be thankful that they do not have rats, as in London they could easily be confused with cats due to their size!
Your first point of call is to find out who’s responsible for sorting it, you or your tenant. As the landlord you would be responsible if the mice got in through a pre-existing hole or opening in the property, the mice were in the property before your tenants moved in, or you listed that vermin would be your responsibility under the tenancy agreement.
On the other hand, if your tenant has caused the problem, they did not clear away rubbish or leftover food, then the tenant would need to take action; and I would recommend that you keep tabs on your tenants to ensure they have done this.
If you have a standard AST and neither party caused this issue, then this would be down to you if you choose to step in and help, but be warned as your tenant could state their case to environmental health.
If the mice are coming from your neighbour’s place, then speak to the owner. If they do not take any action at all then you can report it to the council.
Feel free to contact me for more information.
Richard Bond
