Ealing Council is 'urging' local businesses to make sure they are not caught out by poor pest control services that could risk them being closed down.

The Council has uncovered a number of issues during regular inspections in venues where the business owners had already paid for checks to be carried out by pest control companies.

However, after contractors reported that there were no issues, the Council would then find infestation by pests – which means the companies were "unlikely to have checked thoroughly, or competently."

Ealing Council says: "It is crucial to use a legitimate and thorough company to make sure your business avoids any risks including contamination – and avoids it having to be shut down by council inspectors."

In response to the findings, the Council has issued warning letters to 16 pest control companies operating in the borough that have carried out poor jobs.

Leaflets are also being sent out to local businesses with helpful tips and information on how to check if their sites are pest-free and continue to meet the standards.

This includes making sure holes or gaps at entry points are properly blocked off, and understanding who is responsible for pest proofing within their business.

Last year, officers inspected more than 2,100 food businesses, whilst also dealing with more than 1,000 complaints, referrals, and requests for advice.

Over the course of 2023, 34 Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notices were served to local businesses, with most due to pest control issues. Those businesses were required to stop trading immediately until they had made the necessary improvements, the council confirms. 

Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council's cabinet member for decent living incomes, says: "Our dedicated officers are doing a fantastic job to make sure the borough's businesses maintain the highest possible hygiene standards. 

"Local businesses should regularly check that their pest control contractors are reputable and delivering a high-quality service."

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