In a line: no. A business does not require by law to have a professional pest control contract in place. All businesses that are involved in food in any way do, however, need to be able to show that their pest control is managed.
Organisations such as those working in education, care homes and catering will benefit from having a pest control contract. Sometimes catering is a secondary income for a business, such as a museum with a café, and again a pest control contract is recommended.
What do you need a business pest control contract for?
A pest control contract for businesses shows that your company or organisation is managing the pest control at the premises. Organisations without a pest control contract need to be able to show how they are managing the pest control for their business – which is not always easy in the event of a health and safety inspection.
If signs of a pest infestation, such as rodents or cockroaches, are found during a health and safety inspection then it is possible that the business will be closed by health and safety inspectors until it can show the existing pest problem has been exterminated. They will also need to be satisfied that there is a pest control or pest management facility moving forwards.
Some businesses might be free of a pest infestation, however health and safety inspectors can still require a pest control contract to be in place and ask to see evidence of this.
A professional pest control company with a pest control contract service, will usually put rodent bait in place on the business premises on a permanent basis. Routine pest control inspections will also be carried out, checking for signs of rodents or rodent activity. These pest control inspections should be fully documented and a copy of the pest inspection report provided.
If signs of a rats or mice are noticed during a pest control inspection, then the pest control company should then implement additional pest control measures as required. A reputable pest control company will normally include additional pest control visits as a part of the pest control contract, meaning additional pest control is free of charge.
Overall, it is best for the business reputation, public health and peace of mind in the event of a health and safety inspection for all relevant businesses to have a pest control contract. You know your customers are safe from pest related risks or diseases, your business will maintain a reputation of high standards and you know that when there is a health and safety inspection you have all the required paperwork and pest control systems in place.
