What the council offers
Wandsworth Council treats bed bugs in residential properties, and it charges for the service. You pay upfront by debit or credit card when you book. The council lists prices by number of bedrooms.
From 1 April 2026, the page listed £237.91 for a one-bedroom home and £285.49 for two bedrooms, when checked in October 2026. Those prices include VAT and cover two treatments. Larger homes cost more, so read the Wandsworth pest control page for the full table.
The council also lists reduced rates for members of its Access for All scheme and for people on means-tested benefits. Eligibility depends on the council’s own rules. Therefore, check the page before you assume you qualify.
A council visit is one option among several. Some people prefer a private contractor, for example when they want a specific method. Our guide to council or private bed bug treatment compares the routes.
If you rent
Many Wandsworth homes are privately rented, including shared houses. The council sets out a clear order for private tenants. You must report any disrepair to your landlord before you contact the council.
Put your report in writing. The council says this also matters for your protection against eviction under the Deregulation Act 2015. Add photographs and keep copies of all messages.
Once you report to the council, it will assess the complaint and decide whether it falls within its powers. If it does, the council contacts the landlord to require the work. It says it assesses reports within five working days, except for emergencies. See the council’s reporting page for the form.
Our renters and landlords guide explains who usually pays for treatment. In addition, the post on how to check a London flat for bed bugs helps you gather evidence before you write to your landlord.
Flats and shared buildings in Wandsworth
The borough includes purpose-built blocks, large estates and converted houses with several flats. Commuters also pass through its stations daily. In such places, bugs can arrive on bags and clothing and then spread between homes.
Because of this, tell neighbours and the managing agent as soon as you confirm bugs. Ask whether adjoining flats will be checked. The post on bed bugs and public transport explains the risk on commutes and how to reduce it.
Landlords of shared houses should treat the whole property, not a single room. Moreover, shared kitchens and hallways need a check, since bags and coats often sit there.
Getting a fair inspection
A fair inspection shows evidence. Ask the inspector what they found, which rooms they will treat and how follow-up works. Specifically, check whether your quote includes a second treatment, as the council’s listed price does.
Compare at least two written quotes on the same scope. Our London bed bug treatment guide lists what a sound plan includes. If a company will not inspect first, look elsewhere.
Travel, luggage and second-hand items
Bed bugs often arrive from outside the home. Luggage, coats and second-hand furniture are common routes. For that reason, a short check after a trip saves a lot of trouble.
Unpack on a hard floor, not on the bed. Wash fabric items hot where the label allows it, and look at the seams of bags. Our post on checking luggage after travel gives a quick routine.
Check used furniture before it enters the house. Inspect seams, joints and drawers in good light. Moreover, avoid taking furniture from the street, since you cannot know where it has been.
After treatment
The council’s price covers two treatments, so expect a follow-up. Do not relax between visits. Keep the room tidy, wash bedding hot and leave furniture where the technician put it.
Our preparing for treatment guide explains how to get ready for each visit. Meanwhile, note any new bites or live bugs with dates. Tell your provider and your landlord quickly if the problem returns.
Next steps
Follow this order:
- Check bed frames, mattress seams and nearby furniture.
- Photograph anything you find, with dates.
- Tell your landlord or agent in writing if you rent.
- Book an inspection and ask what to prepare.
- Follow the preparation list closely.
For nearby areas, see the Lambeth area guide or what Hammersmith and Fulham residents should check.
Questions about bed bugs in Wandsworth
Does Wandsworth Council treat bed bugs?
Yes. The council offers bed bug treatment for homes. It is charged, and you pay upfront by debit or credit card when you book.
How much does it cost?
From 1 April 2026 the council listed £237.91 for a one-bedroom home, including VAT and two treatments, when checked in October 2026. Larger homes cost more, and reduced rates exist for some residents, so check the page.
Do I have to tell my landlord before I contact the council?
Yes. The council says to report disrepair to your landlord before you contact it. Put the report in writing and keep photographs.
How quickly does the council assess a private tenant's report?
The council says it assesses reports within five working days, except for emergencies, which get a quicker response.
Sources and further checks
Open each source before you act, because council services, prices, tenancy rules and product labels can change. We list the pages this guide relied on when it was last checked.