Woodlice, often known locally as "slaters" or "cheesy bobs," are technically land-dwelling crustaceans rather than insects. While they are harmless and do not c...
For homeowners, woodlouse control isn't just about removing the pests; it is about identifying where moisture is ingress and ensuring the structural integrity of your property. Professional intervention focuses on both immediate eradication and long-term prevention through environmental management.
What Does the Work Involve?
- Site Inspection: Identifying "hotspots" such as damp skirting boards, cupboards under sinks, and gaps around pipes.
- Moisture Assessment: Using moisture meters to find the damp source, such as leaking gutters, rising damp, or poor sub-floor ventilation.
- External Clearance: Removing leaf litter, rotting wood, and debris from the building's perimeter that provide harbourage.
- Chemical Treatment: Applying residual insecticide sprays or dusts to entry points, thresholds, and wall voids.
- Physical Proofing: Sealing cracks in masonry, repairing mortar, and advising on improved air-brick ventilation.
- Monitoring: Placing non-toxic sticky traps to gauge the success of the treatment and identify remaining activity.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Call-out & Inspection | £65 | £130 | Includes basic survey and report. |
| Standard Treatment (3-bed semi) | £120 | £250 | Insecticide application and minor sealing. |
| Materials & Consumables | £20 | £70 | Professional-grade sprays and baits. |
| Damp Remediation (Minor) | £150 | £450 | Clearing air bricks or fixing minor leaks. |
| Total Project Cost | £150 | £400 | Typical range for professional UK service. |
Prices vary based on the severity of the infestation and the extent of the required damp proofing. Most professional pest controllers include a follow-up visit within the initial quote, but complex structural repairs will be charged extra.
How Long Does It Take?
- Initial Inspection: 30 to 60 minutes to identify sources and entry points.
- Standard Treatment: 1 to 2 hours for chemical application and basic proofing.
- Full Remediation: 4+ hours if external clearance and ventilation repairs are required.
- Monitoring Period: 7 to 14 days to ensure the population has been successfully eradicated.
DIY or Professional?
A few woodlice can be managed with DIY sprays and by reducing humidity with a dehumidifier. However, a persistent infestation usually indicates a structural damp issue that requires professional equipment to diagnose accurately.
Professional pest controllers have access to professional-use-only residual insecticides that last much longer than supermarket alternatives, providing a more robust barrier against re-entry.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
- Check Credentials: Look for membership in the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) or the National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA).
- Insurance: Ensure they hold public liability insurance specifically covering pest control activities.
- Red Flags: Be wary of "technicians" who offer a chemical-only solution without investigating the source of the damp.
- Ask: "Are the chemicals used safe for my pets and children, and how long must we vacate the treated rooms?"
- Ask: "Do you provide a written report detailing the moisture levels found during the inspection?"
UK Regulations
- COSHH (2002): Professionals must comply with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health regulations when applying pesticides.
- HSE Approval: All products used must be approved by the Health and Safety Executive for use in domestic environments.
- Wildlife and Countryside Act: Treatments must not impact non-target species or protected habitats.
- Paperwork: You should receive a "Treatment Report" detailing the chemicals used, the areas treated, and any safety advice.
Common Problems
- Treating Symptoms Only: Spraying woodlice without fixing the damp will only provide temporary relief before they return.
- Blocked Air Bricks: Homeowners often block air bricks to stop pests, which actually increases damp and attracts more woodlice.
- External Debris: Piles of firewood or mulch kept against the house wall act as a "bridge" for pests to enter.
- Poor Ventilation: High humidity in bathrooms or kitchens provides the perfect microclimate for woodlice to thrive indoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do woodlice bite or carry diseases?
No, woodlice do not bite humans or pets, and they do not carry any known diseases. They are considered a "nuisance pest" rather than a health hazard.
Why do I see more woodlice in the autumn and winter?
As the weather turns colder and wetter, woodlice seek shelter in warmer, damp environments. If your home has any damp spots, they will migrate indoors to survive the frost.
Can woodlice damage my house or furniture?
Generally, no. They feed on decaying organic matter. However, if you have structural timber that is already rotting from damp, woodlice may congregate there and slightly accelerate the degradation.
How long do I need to stay out of a room after treatment?
Most professional sprays require you to stay out of the room until the treated surfaces are completely dry, which typically takes 2 to 4 hours.
Will a dehumidifier get rid of woodlice?
It will help significantly. Woodlice breathe through gill-like structures and require high humidity to survive. Drying out the air will eventually cause them to leave or die.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
