Pest Infestation Claims
Pest Infestation Housing Disrepair Claims
Rats, mice, cockroaches and bed bugs in a rented property can make it uninhabitable. If your landlord has failed to address a pest infestation, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Rat, mouse and cockroach infestation claims
- Bed bug infestation compensation
- Compensation for damaged belongings and health
- Free, no-obligation initial consultation
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Pest infestation claims
When is a landlord liable for pest infestation?
Landlords are liable for pest infestation when pests enter through structural defects in the building — gaps in walls, broken air bricks, damaged floorboards, defective drains. If the building fabric allows pest entry, the landlord is responsible.
Landlord liability for pest infestation depends on the cause. Where pests enter the property through structural defects — gaps in external walls, broken air bricks, damaged floorboards, holes around pipe work, defective drains or missing roof tiles — the landlord is responsible under section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, which requires them to keep the structure and exterior in repair. If the structural defect allows pest entry, the landlord has failed in their repair duty regardless of how clean the tenant keeps the property. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 provides additional protection: a property infested with pests is simply not fit for human habitation, and the landlord is in breach of the fitness standard. It is important to distinguish between infestations caused by structural defects (the landlord's responsibility) and infestations caused solely by the tenant's housekeeping — though in practice, the vast majority of infestations in rented properties are caused by the condition of the building, not tenant behaviour. The Defective Premises Act 1972 further supports claims where the building's condition has created the pest problem.
The health risks from pest infestation are serious and well documented. Rats carry Weil's disease (leptospirosis), salmonella and other bacterial infections, and their droppings and urine contaminate food and surfaces. Mice spread similar diseases and their droppings trigger allergic reactions. Cockroaches are a significant asthma trigger, particularly in children, and carry bacteria including salmonella and E. coli. Bed bugs, while not known to transmit diseases, cause painful bites, severe skin reactions and profound psychological distress — many tenants suffer anxiety, insomnia and depression from bed bug infestations. Beyond health impact, pest infestations cause significant damage to belongings. Bed bug infestations typically require the disposal of mattresses, bedding, soft furnishings and sometimes clothing — all of which can be claimed as special damages at replacement cost. Rodent infestations damage food stores, gnaw through wiring creating fire hazards, and contaminate stored possessions. Abraham Baron Solicitors, based in Birmingham, pursue compensation for all health impact, damaged belongings and the inconvenience of living with a pest infestation, on a no win, no fee basis.
To pursue a pest infestation claim, you must notify your landlord in writing about the infestation and the structural defects allowing pest entry. Photographs of pest activity, droppings, damage and the entry points are essential evidence. A pest control report identifying the species and likely entry points strengthens the claim considerably. The landlord's duty is not only to arrange pest control treatment but to repair the structural defects that allowed the pests to enter — otherwise the infestation will simply recur. Abraham Baron Solicitors pursue both the repair of structural defects and compensation for the infestation period. Call us on 0330 133 0777 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Pest infestation claims we handle
Types of pest claims
Pest infestation claims we handle
From rodents to bed bugs, we pursue all pest infestation claims caused by structural defects
Rat infestation
Rats entering through defective drains, gaps in walls and damaged floorboards
Mouse infestation
Mice entering through small gaps in the building fabric, around pipes and under doors
Cockroach infestation
Cockroaches breeding in warm, damp areas caused by building defects and poor drainage
Bed bug infestation
Bed bugs in properties with shared walls, communal areas and inadequate pest control
Recurring infestations
Pest problems that return because the landlord treats symptoms but fails to fix entry points
Pest damage to belongings
Furniture, bedding, clothing and food stores damaged or contaminated by pest activity
Health risks and consequences of pest infestation
Why choose Abraham Baron Solicitors for your pest infestation claim?
No Win No Fee
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation. Zero upfront cost for pest claims.
Structural Cause Identified
We instruct surveyors to identify the structural defects allowing pest entry — proving landlord liability.
Full Damages Claimed
We claim for destroyed belongings, health impact, pest control costs and inconvenience.
Repairs Enforced
We pursue court orders requiring the landlord to fix entry points, not just treat the symptoms.
Environmental Health
We coordinate with local authority environmental health teams for enforcement support.
Urgent Action
Severe infestations need fast action. We act quickly to protect your health and home.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Is my landlord responsible for a rat infestation?
Your landlord is responsible if the rats are entering through structural defects in the property — gaps in walls, damaged drains, broken air bricks, holes around pipework or defective floorboards. Under section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the landlord must keep the structure in repair, and if structural defects allow pest entry, the landlord has breached this duty. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 further provides that a rat-infested property is not fit for habitation. Abraham Baron Solicitors instruct surveyors to identify the structural defects and prove the landlord's liability.
Can I claim for belongings destroyed by pests?
Yes. Belongings damaged or destroyed by pest infestation are claimed as special damages at their current replacement cost. This is particularly significant in bed bug cases, where mattresses, bedding, soft furnishings, curtains and sometimes clothing must be disposed of. Rat and mouse damage to food stores, wiring and stored items is also claimable. Keep a detailed list of everything damaged or destroyed, take photographs, and retain receipts where possible. Abraham Baron Solicitors prepare a comprehensive schedule of losses for every pest infestation claim.
The pests keep coming back after treatment — what can I do?
Recurring infestations are extremely common in housing disrepair cases because landlords arrange pest control treatment but fail to repair the structural defects that allow the pests to enter. This is like treating symptoms without curing the disease. Abraham Baron Solicitors pursue claims that require the landlord to both eliminate the current infestation and repair all structural entry points. A court order requiring structural repairs is far more effective than repeated pest control treatments. Each recurrence strengthens your compensation claim.
How do I prove the pest infestation is my landlord's fault?
The key evidence is identifying the structural defects that allow pests to enter the property. Abraham Baron Solicitors instruct independent surveyors to inspect the property and identify entry points — gaps in walls, defective drains, broken air bricks, damaged floorboards. A pest control report identifying the species, extent of infestation and likely entry routes is also valuable. Photographs of pest activity, droppings, damage and the structural defects are essential. Your written complaints to the landlord about the infestation and their failure to act complete the evidence picture.
Can I leave the property because of a severe pest infestation?
You should take legal advice before leaving, as leaving a tenancy without following the correct legal process can weaken your claim and leave you liable for rent. However, where a pest infestation makes the property genuinely uninhabitable — a severe rat or cockroach infestation for example — the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 may support your position. Abraham Baron Solicitors can advise whether the infestation is severe enough to justify leaving and can claim the cost of alternative accommodation as part of your special damages. Call 0330 133 0777 before making any decision to leave.
How your pest infestation claim works
Simple, transparent process from start to finish
Free Consultation
Tell us about the pest infestation, the structural defects and your landlord's response. We assess your claim for free.
Survey and Evidence
We instruct an independent surveyor to identify structural entry points and a pest controller to document the infestation.
Pre-Action Letter
We send a formal letter requiring your landlord to eliminate the infestation and repair all structural defects.
Compensation and Repairs
We negotiate compensation for your losses and pursue court orders for structural repairs if needed.
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Briefly outline your situation and we will come back to you with a sensible next step. No cost for the initial discussion and no obligation to instruct us.
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- Plain-English explanation of your options
- No pressure to proceed
- We aim to respond within 24 hours
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Client reviews
Trusted by hundreds of clients
Stephane Bowley
I can recommend Ali to anyone he's very good at his job work really hard and keep you updated at all times.
Sheila Garces
I can't recommend this firm enough for their outstanding support during my housing disrepair case. From the very beginning, Ali made me feel heard and understood, which meant so much during what was a really stressful time.
Ahsan Hussain
Dealt with Isaa with regards to my personal injury claim, he was very professional and prompt with dealing with my claim, kept me updated and helped to get me a great settlement, would definitely recommend to others.
Shaz Josephs
From start to finish of my claim I can't say anything but thank you Isaa. 100% true to your word. What an amazing Solicitor.
Molly White
Absolutely amazing solicitors, helped me with my housing disrepair claim, from start to finish my solicitor Ali was amazing kept me updated on everything, everyone was also very polite who I spoke to highly recommended.
Alex
After a court case with my local council after their repeated failure for nearly two years to solve the mould and damp within my house I contacted Abraham Baron Solicitors and in no time did they help with my claim.
A M L
I am very grateful to Abraham Baron solicitors for their great work, specially Bahja has done a great work supporting me all the way through and they got the best result possible. Thank you very much.
Father and son Gaming
Took care of our claim from start to finish and the result was pretty decent. Thanks to everyone's hard work we got the desired outcome.
imaan aziz
Isaa has been a very good solicitor he has showed me and explained every detail of the situation I have been in and I appreciate it so much. I would recommend him to you guys.
Umar Asghar
Very highly respected people Nazsh and Ali Kassam both helped me with my case, always helped if I had any problems and concerns. Thank you so much for everything.
Aaron Webster
My handler Junayd did fantastic work in winning my settlement.
Arshe Habib
They are the most professional and the best when it comes to disrepair claims and worked really hard.
kamal hamed
Thank you so much Abraham Solicitors for sorting out my ongoing problems in my flats. Special thank you to Mr Ali Kassam — you are very talented, kind and responsible person.
Sean Connolly
I can recommend this company they fixed all my disrepair to my home. Jayned was my solicitor and he was excellent and I'd use them again if I need their help.
Satish Malaviya
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Special thanks to Issa, who handled my case with great professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care.
Sacherevell Aikens
Abraham Baron Solicitors are great to work with. Very helpful, above and beyond. If you need a solicitor ask for Iman Chishty, he is very good.
Usama Khan
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors while handling my injury claim. The process was smooth, professional, and stress-free. A special thank-you to Maria, who did all the hard work.
Rumana Miah
Abraham Baron Solicitors were very professional, helpful, supportive and patient throughout. They ensured our claim was dealt with efficiently and always communicated to us.
Becky Maunder
Junahd was absolutely amazing with my case. He went above and beyond to help me. Outstanding service provided by him and great outcome. Couldn't be more happier.
H Singh
Thank you to Issa. Always kept me updated during the whole process of the claim. Appreciate the time and dedication he put in.
Mhamad Maulud
I want to give 5 star review to Abraham Baron Solicitors for great job and professional. Special thanks to Issa for his support. They were able to get good money for my injury claim very quickly.
Jim Mummert
Excellent result achieved with the professional assistance of Solicitor Sejal Karavadra who specializes in visa applications and the Home Office. Highly recommended.
Isa Ali
I want to give my full appreciation to Abraham Baron Solicitors and especially to Imam for his outstanding support with my housing disrepair claim. When I had lost hope, they guided me with professionalism.
Jane Hunt
Absolutely fantastic service, totally professional and respectful at all times. I was updated and kept informed every step of the way. I'm really happy with the outcome which was a really quick process.
Darren Stone
Abraham Baron Solicitors done a great job with my damp claim and would highly recommend them.
Julie Pinot de Moira
We found them supportive and thorough.
Jalil Nebizai
The best firm I have dealt with, very professional, very knowledgeable, amazing customer service. Would like to praise Mubi, who did amazing work. She went the extra mile and made a lot of effort on my claim.
Rizgar Zaree
2 times in the last 8 months I gave my case to Isaa and he went above and beyond to settle my claim very quickly. Very professional and reliable service.
katherine Harrison
The firm Abraham Baron Solicitors Limited is a fantastic firm, very professional, extremely kind. Get things done very fast. Very easy to contact and the outcome is true to the lawyers' words.
Marcus Williams
Highly recommended this company. Great communication levels from start to finish. Imam very friendly and good at his job, many thanks to you guys.
Phillip Marriott
Munira and Abraham both worked extremely hard to get the repairs done. Even though it was something they don't usually deal with, they got us the result we wanted.
Daisy Maria
Iman has been amazing from the very first day we spoke and has always paid complete attention to my needs. He has communicated with me throughout and shown so much support.
Kristal Thomas
I am very satisfied with the work that Imam and the firm has done from start to finish. Excellent communication throughout and have achieved an excellent outcome.
A Demisse
ABS is very helpful, pays attention to what I am saying, and is totally honest. I received so much help from Mr Ali Kassam, who handled my case professionally from start to finish.
Anil Badhan
Gave my case to Issa Khan and he went above and beyond to settle my claim. Very professional and reliable service. I felt valued as a customer.
Jay
Iman Chishty is the man. He done an amazing job, helped me so much and is a good and down to earth person to speak to. Highly Recommended.
fozia c
Excellent professional service! Isaa Khan handled my accident claim with prompt communication and a favourable outcome — closed within a matter of weeks.
Matthew Hurley
Yes and thank you very much for all the help, really grateful.
VernB
Imam has been the best. From the beginning he gave me good advice and support because it wasn't an easy process but with his frequent updates and explanations of the next steps, I felt at ease.
Lee Duffy
Can't thank this firm enough and the gentleman who helped me. With me being so ill, all these problems just got too much for me. I'd recommend these guys to anybody out there.
T G
Can't recommend this firm enough and Imam who took on my case has been so helpful keeping me updated with things and getting me the help I needed!
NANCY THORPE
Exceptional service provided by the company. Specifically Hana Nasreen — she provided knowledge and experience with a professional approach with regular updates. She dealt with my disrepair claim successfully.
Muryam Rivers
Exceptional service provided by the company and specifically from Imam. Professional approach, commitment, and regular updates. Dealt with issues and concerns successfully.
Natasha Frost
Amazing, friendly, helpful and go the extra mile! Abraham helped me with a case against my landlord.
Talha Khan
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Abraham Baron Solicitors, particularly by Sejal Karavadra. Her dedication and commitment to my case were truly remarkable.
arsham manouk
We are council tenants and we had a great experience with this firm. They helped us resolve a situation with our upstairs neighbours, whose persistent leaks were damaging our property.
Caroline Aro
We had a lovely experience with this firm. The client care was exceptional, the advice was easy to understand. My father felt his voice was heard all the time. They won the case.
Raise Malik
From the very beginning, I experienced excellent service with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Throughout my claim, they kept me well-informed, patiently explaining whenever needed.
akhtar miah
I had an exceptional experience. Their professional approach and unwavering confidence in handling my case truly stood out. The team's expertise and dedication provided me with peace of mind.
Adam Kalam
I was extremely impressed with the level of professionalism that the team provided me with. They really went the extra mile to make sure everything was completed exactly how we wanted it.
Mohammed Rashid
Absolutely fantastic service, very efficient, good communication at all times. Nice and prompt resolution, very happy with their service indeed.
mohsin Farooq
5 star service, very professional. Will recommend to all friends and family. Thank you Abraham.
Parminder Badhan
Outstanding service. If you're looking for a solicitor who is prompt, efficient and helpful with excellent communication skills, I would highly recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Azharul Islam
Very knowledgeable in many areas, extremely clear in all communications and a genuine caring organisation. I fully recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Hammad Ullah Sharif
Highly competent at what they do! The professional guidance and support provided was above and beyond. Would happily recommend.
Aman Rayat
Amazing solicitors!! I would definitely recommend them as they are very knowledgeable and give the best service to all their clients.
The Magnetic Muslimah
I definitely recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors, top service, very quick response, great customer service. Abraham is very knowledgeable and knows the law very well.
Jayesh Bhatt
Brilliant service, very professional and helpful and also very efficient.
Adele Dwyer
I am very happy with the work that has been done for my family, and very impressed with the work done in a short time frame. I would recommend this firm to others.
Stephane Bowley
I can recommend Ali to anyone he's very good at his job work really hard and keep you updated at all times.
Sheila Garces
I can't recommend this firm enough for their outstanding support during my housing disrepair case. From the very beginning, Ali made me feel heard and understood, which meant so much during what was a really stressful time.
Ahsan Hussain
Dealt with Isaa with regards to my personal injury claim, he was very professional and prompt with dealing with my claim, kept me updated and helped to get me a great settlement, would definitely recommend to others.
Shaz Josephs
From start to finish of my claim I can't say anything but thank you Isaa. 100% true to your word. What an amazing Solicitor.
Molly White
Absolutely amazing solicitors, helped me with my housing disrepair claim, from start to finish my solicitor Ali was amazing kept me updated on everything, everyone was also very polite who I spoke to highly recommended.
Alex
After a court case with my local council after their repeated failure for nearly two years to solve the mould and damp within my house I contacted Abraham Baron Solicitors and in no time did they help with my claim.
A M L
I am very grateful to Abraham Baron solicitors for their great work, specially Bahja has done a great work supporting me all the way through and they got the best result possible. Thank you very much.
Father and son Gaming
Took care of our claim from start to finish and the result was pretty decent. Thanks to everyone's hard work we got the desired outcome.
imaan aziz
Isaa has been a very good solicitor he has showed me and explained every detail of the situation I have been in and I appreciate it so much. I would recommend him to you guys.
Umar Asghar
Very highly respected people Nazsh and Ali Kassam both helped me with my case, always helped if I had any problems and concerns. Thank you so much for everything.
Aaron Webster
My handler Junayd did fantastic work in winning my settlement.
Arshe Habib
They are the most professional and the best when it comes to disrepair claims and worked really hard.
kamal hamed
Thank you so much Abraham Solicitors for sorting out my ongoing problems in my flats. Special thank you to Mr Ali Kassam — you are very talented, kind and responsible person.
Sean Connolly
I can recommend this company they fixed all my disrepair to my home. Jayned was my solicitor and he was excellent and I'd use them again if I need their help.
Satish Malaviya
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Special thanks to Issa, who handled my case with great professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care.
Sacherevell Aikens
Abraham Baron Solicitors are great to work with. Very helpful, above and beyond. If you need a solicitor ask for Iman Chishty, he is very good.
Usama Khan
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors while handling my injury claim. The process was smooth, professional, and stress-free. A special thank-you to Maria, who did all the hard work.
Rumana Miah
Abraham Baron Solicitors were very professional, helpful, supportive and patient throughout. They ensured our claim was dealt with efficiently and always communicated to us.
Becky Maunder
Junahd was absolutely amazing with my case. He went above and beyond to help me. Outstanding service provided by him and great outcome. Couldn't be more happier.
H Singh
Thank you to Issa. Always kept me updated during the whole process of the claim. Appreciate the time and dedication he put in.
Mhamad Maulud
I want to give 5 star review to Abraham Baron Solicitors for great job and professional. Special thanks to Issa for his support. They were able to get good money for my injury claim very quickly.
Jim Mummert
Excellent result achieved with the professional assistance of Solicitor Sejal Karavadra who specializes in visa applications and the Home Office. Highly recommended.
Isa Ali
I want to give my full appreciation to Abraham Baron Solicitors and especially to Imam for his outstanding support with my housing disrepair claim. When I had lost hope, they guided me with professionalism.
Jane Hunt
Absolutely fantastic service, totally professional and respectful at all times. I was updated and kept informed every step of the way. I'm really happy with the outcome which was a really quick process.
Darren Stone
Abraham Baron Solicitors done a great job with my damp claim and would highly recommend them.
Julie Pinot de Moira
We found them supportive and thorough.
Jalil Nebizai
The best firm I have dealt with, very professional, very knowledgeable, amazing customer service. Would like to praise Mubi, who did amazing work. She went the extra mile and made a lot of effort on my claim.
Rizgar Zaree
2 times in the last 8 months I gave my case to Isaa and he went above and beyond to settle my claim very quickly. Very professional and reliable service.
katherine Harrison
The firm Abraham Baron Solicitors Limited is a fantastic firm, very professional, extremely kind. Get things done very fast. Very easy to contact and the outcome is true to the lawyers' words.
Marcus Williams
Highly recommended this company. Great communication levels from start to finish. Imam very friendly and good at his job, many thanks to you guys.
Phillip Marriott
Munira and Abraham both worked extremely hard to get the repairs done. Even though it was something they don't usually deal with, they got us the result we wanted.
Daisy Maria
Iman has been amazing from the very first day we spoke and has always paid complete attention to my needs. He has communicated with me throughout and shown so much support.
Kristal Thomas
I am very satisfied with the work that Imam and the firm has done from start to finish. Excellent communication throughout and have achieved an excellent outcome.
A Demisse
ABS is very helpful, pays attention to what I am saying, and is totally honest. I received so much help from Mr Ali Kassam, who handled my case professionally from start to finish.
Anil Badhan
Gave my case to Issa Khan and he went above and beyond to settle my claim. Very professional and reliable service. I felt valued as a customer.
Jay
Iman Chishty is the man. He done an amazing job, helped me so much and is a good and down to earth person to speak to. Highly Recommended.
fozia c
Excellent professional service! Isaa Khan handled my accident claim with prompt communication and a favourable outcome — closed within a matter of weeks.
Matthew Hurley
Yes and thank you very much for all the help, really grateful.
VernB
Imam has been the best. From the beginning he gave me good advice and support because it wasn't an easy process but with his frequent updates and explanations of the next steps, I felt at ease.
Lee Duffy
Can't thank this firm enough and the gentleman who helped me. With me being so ill, all these problems just got too much for me. I'd recommend these guys to anybody out there.
T G
Can't recommend this firm enough and Imam who took on my case has been so helpful keeping me updated with things and getting me the help I needed!
NANCY THORPE
Exceptional service provided by the company. Specifically Hana Nasreen — she provided knowledge and experience with a professional approach with regular updates. She dealt with my disrepair claim successfully.
Muryam Rivers
Exceptional service provided by the company and specifically from Imam. Professional approach, commitment, and regular updates. Dealt with issues and concerns successfully.
Natasha Frost
Amazing, friendly, helpful and go the extra mile! Abraham helped me with a case against my landlord.
Talha Khan
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Abraham Baron Solicitors, particularly by Sejal Karavadra. Her dedication and commitment to my case were truly remarkable.
arsham manouk
We are council tenants and we had a great experience with this firm. They helped us resolve a situation with our upstairs neighbours, whose persistent leaks were damaging our property.
Caroline Aro
We had a lovely experience with this firm. The client care was exceptional, the advice was easy to understand. My father felt his voice was heard all the time. They won the case.
Raise Malik
From the very beginning, I experienced excellent service with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Throughout my claim, they kept me well-informed, patiently explaining whenever needed.
akhtar miah
I had an exceptional experience. Their professional approach and unwavering confidence in handling my case truly stood out. The team's expertise and dedication provided me with peace of mind.
Adam Kalam
I was extremely impressed with the level of professionalism that the team provided me with. They really went the extra mile to make sure everything was completed exactly how we wanted it.
Mohammed Rashid
Absolutely fantastic service, very efficient, good communication at all times. Nice and prompt resolution, very happy with their service indeed.
mohsin Farooq
5 star service, very professional. Will recommend to all friends and family. Thank you Abraham.
Parminder Badhan
Outstanding service. If you're looking for a solicitor who is prompt, efficient and helpful with excellent communication skills, I would highly recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Azharul Islam
Very knowledgeable in many areas, extremely clear in all communications and a genuine caring organisation. I fully recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Hammad Ullah Sharif
Highly competent at what they do! The professional guidance and support provided was above and beyond. Would happily recommend.
Aman Rayat
Amazing solicitors!! I would definitely recommend them as they are very knowledgeable and give the best service to all their clients.
The Magnetic Muslimah
I definitely recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors, top service, very quick response, great customer service. Abraham is very knowledgeable and knows the law very well.
Jayesh Bhatt
Brilliant service, very professional and helpful and also very efficient.
Adele Dwyer
I am very happy with the work that has been done for my family, and very impressed with the work done in a short time frame. I would recommend this firm to others.
Your first conversation is free, confidential, and without obligation. Contacting us does not start proceedings or commit you to any fees.