Second EPA Prosecution of Lambeth Council Over 10-Year Cockroach Infestation

The problem

Our client, a woman in her 60s with significant health conditions, had endured a severe cockroach infestation in her Lambeth Council home for over ten years. Cockroaches were routinely found in the kitchen, food cupboards and oven, and even in her bed while she was recovering from surgery. The infestation prevented her from cooking, welcoming family into her home, or enjoying a safe and dignified living environment.

Prosecuted twice

The EPA team had already secured a court order against the Council in 2024. Despite that, the Council failed to address the root cause of the infestation in a neighbouring property, leaving our client living in conditions that remained prejudicial to her health.

Our solicitor and file handler meticulously gathered fresh evidence, and new criminal proceedings were issued under Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The strength of the case led the Council to indicate a guilty plea on the eve of trial.

The outcome

Although the Council accepted responsibility for the cockroaches in our client’s property, it disputed the level of compensation she should receive. Our in-house counsel made compelling submissions, which the court accepted, awarding the prosecution’s assessment in full.

This second successful prosecution shows what it can take to hold a local authority landlord to account, and our determination to keep going until the problem is actually fixed. If an infestation in your home has gone unresolved, we can advise on the right route.