Businesses in County Durham looking to tackle or avoid pest problems are being offered free help.
Durham County Council is providing pest management surveys and advice to companies on industrial estates and business parks which it owns.
The pest control team’s qualified and experienced pest control technicians will visit the estates and parks on dates which will be advertised in advance, to allow businesses to book the surveys beforehand.
Staff will identify anything at a site that could attract pests, any weaknesses in a building’s structure that might allow them access, and what monitoring and treatment arrangements a business should put in place.
Companies which book a survey will receive immediate feedback on the day and a written report soon after.
The first survey days take place at Chilton Industrial Estate on Wednesday 21 February and on Dabble Duck and Furnace Industrial Estates in Shildon on Wednesday 7 March.
Mark Farren, the council’s pest control manager, said: “We’re really pleased to be rolling out our new free survey days for businesses.
“Pest infestations can cause real harm to a firm, with potential for damaged equipment or stock which can cost thousands of pounds. They can also hit a firm’s reputation and staff relations.
“Our team can give advice on how to tackle infestations as well as reduce the chances of one occurring.
“We’d encourage firms on our industrial estates and business parks to sign up for the surveys – there is no obligation to use our services if you do.”
The team deal with bed bugs, rats, cockroaches, fleas, weevils, mice, wasps, moles, squirrels and flies on a daily basis.
Pest control is not a service the council has to provide under law. It provides the service to residents for a one-off fee of £40. Appointments can be arranged online at www.durham.gov.uk/pestcontrol or by calling 03000 260 000.
Businesses can find out what the service can do for them by calling 03000 262 550 or emailing: [email protected].