More than 1,300 low-income households have benefited from cheaper pest control treatments following the introduction of a discount scheme.
Having offered a subsidised pest control service to all County Durham households for many years, in April 2023, Durham County Council began introducing half price treatments for residents who are part of the local authority’s Council Tax Reduction Scheme.
Since then, 1,382 residents have benefited from the low-cost treatments to tackle a range of pests, including rats, mice and insects such as bed bugs, fleas, cockroaches, flies and weevils.
The discount, in addition to existing subsidies, means the treatments cost between £22 to £24 for eligible residents.
Cllr Mark Wilkes, the council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: “We understand how distressing an infestation can be and, by introducing these additional discounts, we’ve been able to help even more residents to rid their homes of unwanted pests.
“This not only has a positive impact on the individual household, but often the wider community benefits too, as it helps to ensure neighbourhoods remain clean, safe and healthy places to live and work.
“Whether it’s simply advice on how to keep pests at bay, or a one-off programme of treatment to get rid of rats, mice or other vermin, our experienced pest control team is here to help.
“We can also provide cost effective treatments for businesses and other local organisations across the county.”
In addition to pest control services, the council’s neighbourhood wardens are also ensuring County Durham’s communities are kept clean by identifying private yards and gardens containing noxious waste and offering advice on how to remove it.
If the person responsible fails to take action, the council steps in to clear the location and then bills them for the work.
Thousands of yards and gardens have been cleared across the county, helping to reduce pest issues.
To find out more about Durham County Council’s pest control services for homes and businesses, visit durham.gov.uk/pestcontrol.