Worcestershire homeowners can identify pet infestations with new app

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has created the ‘House of Pests’ online resource to map where pests are common and links to information on specific species in its A-Z of Pests guide.

Users suspecting they might have a pest present in their homes can visit bpca.org.uk/HouseofPests and deploy the tool to narrow down potential issues.

Read more: Old Elizabethans Cricket Club has new cycle parking area

Technical manager at BPCA, Natalie Bungay, said: "Pests can arrive in the home through a number of routes, and while some of them will quickly make themselves known, others are less easy to spot.

"BPCA’s House of Pests is a useful starting point for householders, as it can help them recognise a potential pest problem and direct them to seek help from a BPCA member when needed."

Not restricted to common pests such as rats, mice, and wasps, the House of Pests also contains information on lesser-known, yet widespread pests, like the larvae of the carpet beetle, also known as ‘woolly bears’.

Ms Bungay added: "By highlighting areas within the home that certain pests are commonly found and linking to information and advice about prevention, the House of Pests can be a really useful tool for householders looking to avoid pest problems.

"BPCA always recommends a ‘prevention rather than cure’ approach, so it makes sense to highlight steps people can take to deter pests, such as ensuring bin lids are securely closed and old drainpipes are capped off.

"Anyone who suspects pest activity in their property should contact a BPCA member for help – our members are trained, experienced professionals with access to a range of specialist products that are not available to the public."

Endorsed by the Government via the TrustMark quality scheme, BPCA members are assessed regularly to the British Standard in Pest Management BS EN 16636.

Those requiring professional pest control assistance can head to bpca.org.uk/find page.