Insects

The vast majority of insect species do not cause nuisance. They play an essential role pollinating plants, breaking down waste products, enriching the soil, and are essential as a food source for many other animals such as birds.

Legislation relates to any insects emanating from relevant industrial, trade or business premises and being prejudicial to health or a nuisance, subject to a number of exemptions and does not apply to insects that are categorised as wild animals under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, i.e. animals which are protected.

Before making a complaint to us it would be helpful if you could identify probable sources of the problem. Residents are a vital source of information in any investigation of an insect nuisance.

Are there any farms / waste sites near you?

• What type of farms / waste sites?
• If farms: Do the animals appear well cared for and cleaned out regularly?
• For farmland: Identify whether there are any heaps of material waiting to be ploughed on nearby farmer's fields.
• Have there been problems in your area before?
• Have other residents nearby got the same or a similar insect problem?

Finding the source of insect nuisance can sometimes be a difficult and lengthy process, as premises which have high levels of insect infestation may be mistaken for the source when they might themselves also be sufferers.

As part of our investigation we need to consider:

• Duration: how long has the problem existed, or how long is it likely to continue?
• Frequency: has it occurred before, or is it anticipated to reoccur?
• Impact: the problems the flies cause, do they prevent parts of the property being used, is there a likely health effect?
• Local environment: what is it and where is it?
• Motive: is the problem a consequence of unreasonable behaviour, or normal actions?

Report a problem with flies or other insects

If you would like further information you might find the links below useful:

How to resolve neighbour disputes