Pest control is essential for public health and safety. The 20% VAT makes professional services unaffordable for many households, nurseries and schools. Untreated infestations spread disease and cause damage. Many people then resort to unsafe DIY poisons, risking poisoning and environmental harm.

Professional pest control by qualified technicians prevents serious public-health risks such as leptospirosis from rodents and allergies from insects. HMRC currently standard-rates these services for VAT. Removing VAT would make safe, regulated treatment accessible, reduce dangerous DIY attempts, and better protect families and vulnerable settings like schools and nurseries.