Mice have become the most persistent pest in Croydon's social housing, accounting for 57.4% of all residential pest control visits since 2021, new figures reveal. Data obtained by the Local Democracy Reporting Service shows that contractors carried out 11,266 mouse-related callouts over the past five years, peaking at 325 visits in January 2024 alone.
Rats represent the second most common issue, with around 3,780 visits (19.3% of total). Combined, rodents account for nearly 80% of all pest control activity in the borough's 13,000 council homes. Bedbugs and cockroaches follow, making up 9.9% and 5.5% of visits respectively, with cockroaches showing a steady increase over the last five years.
While callouts for mice and rats have declined slightly in the past year, cockroach infestations have risen consistently. The council's corporate estate also saw 340 pest control visits between 2020 and 2026, with its headquarters, Bernard Weatherill House, requiring 47 interventions.
A Croydon Council spokesperson said: 'We take pest control seriously and are working closely with residents, businesses and housing providers to reduce the conditions that attract pests. This includes encouraging simple steps such as storing food in sealed containers and securing waste properly.'
The council noted that figures reflect the number of visits rather than separate new infestations, as some properties require multiple treatments. However, pest problems remain a persistent challenge, with tenants reporting repeat visits and ongoing issues across the borough.
