Pests A–Z
Every lodger, explained
Each guide covers the signs, how to be sure, what you can do yourself, when to call a professional, and anything the law says you mustn't do.
The pests below are grouped by type. Rodents and biting insects are the most common reasons people search for help, while the protected group covers animals where the law limits what you can do. If you don't know what you're dealing with, start with a case file instead.
Rodents and mammals
MiceDIYRatsCall a proGrey squirrelsCall a proFoxesDIY with care · Deter, don't harmMolesDIY with care · Trap or tolerate
Biting insects
Stinging insects
Crawling insects
AntsDIYCockroachesCall a proSilverfishDIYPantry pestsDIYWoodliceLow risk · Harmless, but a sign of damp
Fabric pests
Flying insects
Spiders
Pest birds
Protected: hands off
How our verdicts work
- DIY
You can usually sort this yourself with the right method.
- DIY with care
Doable yourself, but there's a risk or a common mistake to avoid.
- Call a pro
Usually needs professional treatment or proofing to fix properly.
- Hands off
The law limits what you can do. Get advice or report it.
- Low risk
Harmless or not a pest. Usually no treatment needed.