UK Landlord Forum / Life

Hi

I own a a top floor masionette, there are four flats in the block, each flat has its own separate entrance.  I received a letter today from the tenant of the flat downstairs, informing me that pigeons are sitting on my roof and splattering poo all over her paving slabs and wondered if I would consider putting bird friendly spikes up (is a spike friendly?).  She has also said that it is an environmental health issue.  I have spoken to my tenants who don't appear to have the pigeon problem.  My question is: is it my responsibility regarding the pigeon issue? what action could she take if I refuse to put the spikes up?  The property is leasehold.

Dorothy

Unfortunately,pigeons do not have the same protection as most other wild birds.A contractor should only act on behalf of the owner of the property affected,however,I know from experience that neighbours can call in "pest" control people,with no questions asked.I don't know about the spikes you refer to.I would strongly suggest you contact the local RSPB or RSPCA to find out if what can be done to stop your neighbour going to the environmental health dept,without causing harm to the pigeons.The lease will tell you what the situation is regarding the roof, who has responsibility for it.It would be very strange if the pigeons are just staying on your bit of roof.
I have loads of them nesting in my roof at home,the only nuisance is the racket they make over my bedroom.

I would do it, or at least give permission to that other tenant to put the spikes on. they're usually just glued/screwed on.

I can understand where the other tenant is coming from - i'd probably want something doing if there was an obvious area where pigeons were congregating.