We can assist with certain infestations and their causes. Please use the reporting form to see what we can help with and for advice on who else can help.

Overgrown and unkempt gardens do not necessarily indicate a public health issue. You can request a pest control treatment online.

Vermin and rodents

Rats and mice are attracted to areas containing decaying waste, food stuffs or soft furnishings. Rats are extremely common and require all three of the following to survive: food, water and shelter and not one property will necessarily be the main cause of an increase in rats.

If you regularly spot rodents on your property you should check and fix any vulnerable areas of your home, outbuildings and boundary. If you enjoy feeding the birds and composting, you should also stop those activities for several months. Food waste should not be composted.

A professional pest control service will be able to confirm whether there is an infestation issue, and if it is a result of the condition of any neighbouring land. If you make a complaint about a neighbouring overgrown garden being the source of rats, we will require a pest report or our reference number if you are using the Council’s pest control service, to be passed to us as evidence of any public health risk. We shall then investigate the allegation and take appropriate action where suitable.

Foxes are also attracted to overgrown gardens, but they are not considered a public health risk.

We offer a full range of pest control services, including free advice calls. You can request a pest control treatment online.

Please note, anonymous complaints cannot be processed.

Vegetation issues

If vegetation from your neighbour’s land is damaging your property or fence, or overhanging the boundary line, this is not a public health matter.

Overgrown gardens obstructing a pavement or road should be referred to ESCC Highways: Report a problem with vegetation | live.eastsussexhighways.com

Material can be cut and passed back to the side it’s come from, but we recommend you always speak to your neighbour about it first.

Issues involving high hedges can be investigated by the Planning department. For further information please see: High Hedges – Rother District Council