Who is responsible for dealing with a wasp nest - the tenant or the landlord?

Summer is almost here, and with it comes more creepy crawlies and buzzing insects. But what happens if you discover that wasps have nested in one of your rental properties? Read on to find out more…

Most landlords strive to be 'good' landlords, taking care of the property and the tenants, ensuring the safety certificates are done each year, trying to keep on top of legal compliance, and visiting a couple of times a year to check in and make sure everything is going well.

In your property portfolio, everything is going smoothly, and you enjoy the monthly rental income. That is until your tenants' number flashes up on your phone unexpectedly. They only call when there is a problem, so you brace yourself as you answer. What has gone wrong? Will it be expensive to repair?

But they are calling to report a wasp nest—not an everyday occurrence by any stretch. They are understandably worried; they don't want anyone in the house to get stung and feel that the outside space is unusable whilst there is a nest of wasps.

This raises an important question: Who is responsible for removing a wasp nest? Does this responsibility fall to the landlord or the tenant?

It is not your house; rather, you do not live there. The tenants are required to maintain the garden and outside spaces during their tenancy, so would a wasp's nest not fall to them to deal with?

The short answer is no.

The property and the fabric of the building is your responsibility as the landlord. Typically, the removal of a wasp nest will fall to you. Your tenants have not done anything to encourage wasps to build a nest, and there is nothing that they could have done to prevent it. As the landlord, it is your duty and obligation to arrange for pest control for your tenants, to remove the offending wasp nest, allowing your tenants full enjoyment of the property that they are paying for.

And don't delay. It is not pleasant for your tenants to feel as if they can't go outside and enjoy the garden because of a wasp nest. Prompt action is required when a tenant has reported something to you for repair, as delays could harm your relationship.

If you are trying to manage your tenancy alone, you could be missing important things like this, leaving your tenants unhappy and creating unnecessary stress for yourself. Consider employing a managing agent to look after the property for you. This would ensure that your property is well looked after and all needed repairs are handled for you. Regular visits ensure that your property is being well looked after, your tenants are happy, and your rent is paid.

Contact our team of experts for more information about how property management could be the key to stress-free investment. Click here