Residents of Southampton flats speak out over bed bug issues – Daily Echo

RESIDENTS of a block of flats in Southampton have spoken out after almost three years of constant bed bug problems.

Those who live in Ventnor Court in Swaythling have said they have been suffering with the insect issue for the past two to three years.

Now some have said they are angry as they are being asked to pay the bill for constant cleaning and treating of their flats even though they say its not coming from their homes and they shouldn't have to pay it.

The complex which includes two separate buildings is run by Southampton City Council and one resident, Silvia Colwill said she has refused to pay the money each time because the bugs are coming from other people's homes.

The 74-year-old said: "I've had to replace my bed two times, my sofa three times, I've taken up all the flooring in my flat and had different flooring laid but they come back all the time.

"Every three months their back and the council don't seem to worry about it at all.

"Everybody who's affected by them is supposed to pay to have them treated, but why should they. I've had two bills for about 260 each. I've refused to pay it. I'm spending enough on replacing my furniture and floor all the time and its costing me a fortune."

Silvia has been living in her flat for almost six years now and said it was "a lovely place to live" when she first moved in, but now describes it as "hell".

Ventnor Court. Photo from: Google Maps.

She has asked to move flat in the past but claimed that the council refuse to move her as she is "adequately housed".

Now residents are once again expecting their homes to be treated to get rid of the bed bugs, but say they have been waiting almost a month.

The most common cause of bud bugs is said to be travel with them being transported to properties on people, clothing, luggage, or personal belongings.

They live on the blood of animals or humans and tend to feed at night.

Councillor Fitzhenry, Leader of Southampton City Council, said: We are aware of ongoing issues at Ventnor Court and have been working jointly with the pest control team to address these.

"Surveys have taken place in the affected properties and treatments carried out where necessary. We have also been working with appropriate agencies to provide extra support to tenants throughout these issues.

"Tenants are asked to pay for treatments where appropriate but this is assessed on a case by case basis and consideration is given to tenants individual circumstances and the causes related to any infestation problems.

But now some residents say they are "anxious and depressed" because of the situation.

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Residents of Southampton flats speak out over bed bug issues - Daily Echo