Pest control trespassing

[Harriscap]

Are council pest control officers allowed to trespass in your garden?

If so, do they need to show ID or a warrant?

Just had the fright of my life seeing a man in my garden (victim of past domestic abuse, living alone). When challenged, he didn't show ID, or a warrant. We don't have rats, but I know the neighbours do, and blame me (I have bait boxes down, and no bait is going.)

I have complained to the council. But is he correct that he has the right to trespass? He said he wouldn't have done if there was a lock on the gate, I'm buying a lock today.

Anyone authorised in writing by a local authority can enter your land at any reasonable time for certain purposes related to controlling rats and mice. However, you should have been given 24 hours' notice before anyone came onto your property and the individual concerned should have produced evidence of his authority to do so when you challenged him.

Definitely get the lock fitted. Also, tell the council that he refused to show ID. As

@prh47bridge

Thank you.

I accept that pest control need to do their job. I didn't think this gives them the right to frighten women on their own property, though.

I've emailed a complaint. The daft thing is, I'd have been perfectly fine to let him through to take a look. I just don't like people (men) thinking it's ok to cross my (land) boundaries.

He should have shown you his I'd and told you contact the council if you wanted to confirm his identity. They have procedures for this.

I think he should have asked before going in! Even the police have to have a warrant, or announce before they just enter a property.