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Newly recruited officers will deal with the initial pest problem but also focus on tackling the root causes of infestations

(L-R) Jamie Wood, environmental enforcement and pest control service delivery manager, pest control technicians Mark Harding and Stephen Kime and senior pest control technician Darren Lumsden with Mayor Chris Cooke(Image: Middlesbrough Council)

A new free service which targets pests such as rats and mice in homes across Middlesbrough has launched. Run by Middlesbrough Council, it gives households quick access to free treatment for some of the most common and harmful pests.

It is open to homeowners and people living in private rented accommodation and targets pests - also including bedbugs and cockroaches - inside domestic properties and in private gardens and garages. Mayor Chis Cooke said the service will improve public health, support vulnerable people and keep neighbourhoods clean and safe.

Mayor Cooke said: "We've listened to the concerns raised by our residents and designed a service that will make a real difference to people’s lives. Pest problems can have a serious impact on people's health and wellbeing, especially for vulnerable residents.

"By offering free treatment for the most common pests, we are removing a cost barrier to help people act quickly to get infestations under control. That will improve the day to day lives of everyone in Middlesbrough."

Newly recruited officers will deal with the initial pest problem but also focus on tackling the root causes of infestations. They will also offer advice on hygiene and preventing pests from returning.

Residents can book an appointment by phone on 01642 726001 with the new service launched on Monday, July 6. An online booking system will also be introduced.

More details are available on the council website here. Morning or afternoon appointments will be available from Monday to Friday, while technicians may have to return two or three times to complete a treatment.

Some specialist treatments will remain chargeable in line with existing fees, while social housing tenants will continue to receive support through existing arrangements with their landlords.

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