Dealing with Pests in Your Home 

At Colchester Borough Homes, we want to help you keep your home safe, clean, and pest-free. The Housing Ombudsman considers the following to be pests (Pest guidance | Housing Ombudsman): 

• rats 

• mice 

• daddy long-legs 

• silver fish 

• cockroaches 

• bed bugs

Below is advice on how to prevent and manage pests that may appear in your home. 

Rats &  Mice

Signs to look for:

• Droppings, gnaw marks, scratching noises in walls or ceilings. 
• Nests made of shredded materials.

   

Prevention tips: 

• Store food in sealed containers. 

• Keep bin lids closed and areas clean. 

• Block gaps under doors and around pipes.

   

What to do: 

• Report sightings immediately. We will arrange professional pest control if needed. 

• Do not use poison or traps without guidance.

   

Daddy Long-Legs (Crane Flies)

Signs to look for: 

• Long-legged insects flying indoors, especially in autumn.

   

Prevention tips: 

• Keep windows and doors closed or use fly screens. 

• Turn off outside lights at night to reduce attraction.

   

What to do: 

• These insects are harmless and do not require treatment. 

• Gently remove them using a glass and paper if needed.

   

Silverfish 

Signs to look for: 

• Small, silver-grey insects in bathrooms, kitchens, or damp areas. 

• Damage to paper, wallpaper, or clothing.

   

Prevention tips: 

• Reduce humidity with ventilation or dehumidifiers. 

• Fix leaks and keep areas dry.

   

What to do: 

• Clean affected areas and use silverfish traps. 

• Report persistent issues for further advice.

   

Cockroaches

Signs to look for: 

• Droppings, egg cases, or a musty smell. 

• Sightings at night in kitchens or bathrooms.

   

Prevention tips: 

• Keep surfaces clean and dry. 

• Store food securely and fix leaks.
   

What to do: 

• Report immediately. Cockroaches spread disease and require professional treatment.

   

Bed Bugs

Signs to look for: 

• Bites on skin, blood spots on bedding, or live bugs in mattress seams.

   

Prevention tips: 

• Avoid bringing second-hand furniture into your home without checking it. 

• Be cautious when returning from travel—inspect luggage and clothing.

   

What to do: 

• Report immediately. Early treatment is essential and will be arranged by us if needed.

   

Need Help? 

If you suspect a pest problem: 

• Email: info@cbhomes.org.uk

• Phone: 01206 282514 

• We’ll assess the issue and arrange treatment where appropriate. For pests caused by structural issues or affecting communal areas, we will take responsibility for resolving the problem.