In 2013, The BPCA (British Pest Control Association) National Survey reported that 35% of councils do not currently have an in house pest control service, with only 7% of those that do offering free pest control treatments.

According to the IBIS World market research, it was found that the pest control sector in the UK alone is worth more than £367 million, with the United States pest control sector being worth more than a tremendous $11 billion (translating to £7 billion). This shows that the pest control sector is booming, with wasp infestations being a constant problem for some in the summer months, equally matched with rodents inhabiting homes in the winter.

Many local councils have cut some of their pest control services across the UK, some entirely. This is because local authorities are not legally obliged to provide the service, meaning it can be cut easily in a bid to reduce costs. It is generally more cost effective to have pests treated by your local council, although, there is now an extensive waiting list and the money saved comes at the price of having to wait substantially longer for your pest problem to be resolved. This has caused independent pest control companies to grow, with many offering emergency response times and in many cases, eradicating a pest problem in just a few hours.

Has your local council recently cut its pest control services? What are your thoughts on independent pest control companies?

Remember, it is always important to use a professional and reputable pest control engineer that is licensed to use pesticides and fumigation when treating any form of pest.