Ten inspection prompts
Review food containers, crumbs under appliances, leaks, condensation, waste bins, delivery packaging, pipe gaps, warm appliance recesses, shared service ducts and cleaning access. Use this as a walk-through checklist rather than a substitute for species identification.
Food, moisture and harbourage
Assign responsibility for reporting leaks and clearing waste. In a business, include hidden areas and delivery checks in normal operations; visible cleanliness alone does not establish that a building is pest-free.
Monitor whether changes work
Keep a dated log of sightings and maintenance. If activity continues, show this record to the inspecting professional and discuss neighbouring premises or connected units.
Related pest guides
Rats & Mice
Recognise rodent signs and understand inspection, treatment and proofing.
Read guide
Bed Bugs
Check bedding and furniture signs, preparation and follow-up questions.
Read guide
Cockroaches
Identify kitchen activity and understand monitoring and prevention.
Read guide
Wasps
Assess a suspected nest safely and prepare for professional identification.
Read guideFurther information
- NHS: bedbugs and bites
- Government: renting a safe home
- British Pest Control Association: pest advice
- Find your local council
- Safer food, better business for caterers (FSA)
- HSE: rodenticides
Published by Pest Protect London. Updated 9 September 2026. General information; treatment decisions require an assessment of the property. Editorial policy.