Common Pest Species in the UK: Commercial & Domestic Pest Control

Pests are a year-round problem for both homes and businesses. From rodents and insects to birds and other nuisance species, pests can damage property, spread disease, and create serious health and safety concerns.

This guide highlights some of the most common pests encountered across the UK — and how domestic pest control and commercial pest solutions can help manage them effectively.

Rodents

Rats (Rattus Norvegicus)

Rats, particularly brown rats, are widespread across urban and rural areas. These pests can cause serious structural damage by gnawing through wood, pipes, and electrical wiring — creating potential fire hazards. Rats are also known carriers of diseases such as leptospirosis and salmonella.

In domestic settings, they often enter through broken drains or gaps in walls. In commercial environments, such as restaurants or warehouses, rats are often drawn to accessible food sources or warm spaces.

House Mice (Mus Musculus)

Mice are smaller but no less damaging. They can squeeze through gaps as small as a pencil and often infest lofts, kitchens, and storage areas. Mice contaminate food, damage insulation and wires, and reproduce quickly.

For both homeowners and businesses, professional domestic pest control is key to quickly identifying and removing rodent infestations.

Commercial & Domestic Pest Control – Insects

Ants (Formicidae)

The black garden ant (Lasius niger) is the most common species found indoors. They’re mostly a nuisance but can become a persistent problem if nests are located inside or close to a property. Ant trails are often seen in kitchens, larders, or anywhere food is stored.

Bed Bugs (Cimex Lectularius)

Bed bugs are a growing problem in both domestic and commercial properties, including hotels, care homes, and rental accommodation. These tiny pests feed on human blood at night and leave behind itchy bites. They’re expert hitchhikers, spreading via luggage, furniture, and clothing.

Eradicating bed bugs requires professional domestic pest control and thorough treatment, as DIY solutions are rarely effective.

Cockroaches (Blattodea)

German cockroaches (Blattella germanica) and Oriental cockroaches (Blatta orientalis) are common in the UK. They thrive in warm, damp places like kitchens, bathrooms, and boiler rooms. Cockroaches spread bacteria, contaminate surfaces, and pose a serious health risk.

Commercial kitchens and food storage areas must act quickly if cockroaches are spotted to stay compliant with health and safety regulations.

Fleas (Siphonaptera)

Fleas are usually introduced by pets but can affect homes even after pets are removed. Bites from fleas are itchy and unpleasant, and in large numbers, they can become a severe infestation. Fleas also carry diseases and can survive for long periods without a host.

Treatment involves thorough cleaning and professional-grade insecticide, often provided as part of a domestic pest control service.

Clothes Moths

The common clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) and the case-bearing moth (Tinea pellionella) feed on natural fibres like wool, silk, and cotton. They’re often found in wardrobes, carpets, and upholstered furniture, where they cause damage over time.

Homeowners may not notice the problem until clothes or carpets show signs of wear. Early intervention is key.

Wasps

German wasps (Vespula germanica) and common wasps (Vespula vulgaris) build nests in lofts, sheds, wall cavities, and even underground. While wasps help pollinate plants, they can become aggressive — especially later in the season — and pose a risk to those allergic to stings.
Both homes and businesses should seek professional removal if a wasp nest is discovered.

Bird-Related Commercial & Domestic Pest Control

Feral Pigeons (Columba Livia)

Pigeons are a common problem in urban areas. Their droppings are acidic and can corrode stonework, roofing, and outdoor machinery. Nesting pigeons also create mess, block gutters, and attract mites.

Commercial buildings and large residential blocks often require bird proofing measures, including netting, spikes, or bird control gels.

Other Mammals We Deal With

Grey Squirrels (Sciurus Carolinensis)

Grey squirrels are classed as an invasive species in the UK. In homes, they often access lofts via roof gaps or trees. Once inside, they can chew through wood, insulation, and electrical cables, causing extensive and costly damage.

Squirrel problems are common in domestic pest control, especially in autumn and winter.

Commercial & Domestic Pest Control – Slugs & Snails

Though not harmful to humans, slugs and snails are a major nuisance in gardens and greenhouses. They feed on young plants and vegetables, leaving trails and holes in leaves.

While usually managed with deterrents, large infestations may require professional advice.

Do You Need Commercial or Domestic Pest Control?

Whether you’re dealing with pests in your home or business, professional help is often the quickest and safest way to resolve the issue.

DIY treatments might offer short-term relief, but they rarely eliminate the root cause. At Ian Smith Pest Control, we offer expert domestic pest control and commercial pest solutions tailored to each situation.

Our services include:

• Identification of the pest species
• Treatment plans suited to your environment
• Discreet, fast, and effective service
• Prevention advice to stop pests returning

Speak to Domestic Pest Control Experts

If you’re facing any pest problem — big or small — don’t wait for it to get worse. Whether it’s in a home, flat, restaurant, shop, or warehouse, we can help.