Preparing for the 2026 CRRU Amendments — What UK Property Owners Need to Know and How to Choose a Trusted Pest Control Expert
- PGM & SON Pest Control
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Article Overview & Navigation
New regulations from the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) take effect in January 2026, requiring certified pest controllers to follow stricter standards, including mandatory CPD and Integrated Pest Management. This article explains what the changes mean for property owners and highlights how PGM & Son Pest Control are leading the way in responsible, compliant pest management.
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What is the CRRU?
The CRRU stands for the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use. A UK stewardship group formed to oversee the responsible purchase, supply, and use of professional rodenticides by farmers, gamekeepers, and pest controllers.
Everyone envolved in Rodent Pest Management, as a part of their duties, need to be certified.
With the new 2026 amendments to the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) fast approaching, it’s vital to understand these changes—not just for pest controllers, but for property owners who want peace of mind that their pest control providers meet the highest standards.
PGM and Son Pest Control Services are proud to be among the first pest control companies in the UK to share insights on these important updates and guide the public on choosing a trusted and compliant pest control company.
Our Public Statement on the 2026 CRRU Amendments
"We are delighted to endorse these changes, and are proud to continue redefining the pest control industry through our guiding principle: ‘Inspect, Detect, Protect.’"
Understanding the 2026 CRRU Amendments
The CRRU is a UK initiative focused on responsible and safe rodenticide use to protect public health and the environment. Demands of consumers for high quality and safe food mean that there is a need for ever higher standards in all stages of food production.
This has led to strict quality assurance requirements from buyers, such as supermarkets and food processing companies.
Countdown to Compliance: Pest Control and the New CRRU Rules
From January 1, 2026, there are significant changes:
Only those with a valid, current CRRU-approved certification will be permitted to purchase and use professional rodenticides.
Certification must be less than five years old or supported by ongoing membership in a CRRU-approved Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme.
Pest controllers must earn 20 CPD points annually, with at least 3 points from CRRU-approved courses.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is mandatory, focusing on monitoring, proofing, and habitat management to minimise rodenticide use, which must be a last resort.
These amendments enforce stringent controls to ensure rodenticides are used safely and responsibly while protecting wildlife and the environment.
No More Shortcuts: Membership Schemes Alone Won’t Qualify After 2026
At their heart is a simple aim: to protect people, property, and the environment through responsible, professional pest management. Learn more about CRUU Think Wildlife Campaign.
Why the CRRU Code Matters for Pest Controllers
Early Awareness and Compliance Matter
Being proactive about the 2026 CRRU amendments means your pest controller is not only compliant with laws but also demonstrates professionalism and environmental stewardship.
Non-compliance risks include:
Legal repercussions and inability to purchase or use rodenticides.
Reduced treatment effectiveness due to unqualified operators.
Potential harm to non-target species and environmental contamination.
Loss of trust and reputation among customers.
As regulations grow tougher, only companies serious about best practices will succeed, making early compliance a key differentiator and assurance of quality service.
Choosing a Trusted and Compliant Local Pest Control Company
Property owners must stay alert to credentials, compliance, and proven reliability. Selecting the right pest controller has never been more important.
Here’s how to ensure a company is trustworthy and compliant:
Accreditations and Memberships: Look for NPTA (National Pest Technicians Association) or BPCA (British Pest Control Association) membership. These bodies require strict adherence to codes of practice and professional standards.
Certifications: Check that technicians hold up-to-date CRRU-approved certification or belong to a recognised CPD scheme compliant with the 2026 regulations.
Transparency: Responsible companies openly share details about the chemicals they use, their compliance with IPM principles, and treatment guarantees.
Professionalism: Strong customer service, fully insured operations, and clear communication indicate a reputable business.
How to Identify a Responsible Pest Controller
Professional pest controllers are in a position to be standard bearers for stewardship best practice.
To further ensure selecting a genuine pest expert:
Verify membership in recognised trade bodies like NPTA or BPCA, which have standards for training and ethical operation.
Confirm that technicians hold certifications such as RSPH Level 2 in pest control and CRRU-approved rodenticide training within the last five years.
Check the company’s commitment to ongoing staff training and professional development—essential for staying ahead of regulatory changes.
Ensure the provider has appropriate public liability insurance and complies with all health and safety requirements.
Eco-Friendly and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approaches
The 2026 amendments mandate IPM, emphasising:
Non-chemical methods such as monitoring, habitat management, and structural proofing.
Using rodenticides only as a last resort where absolutely necessary.
Thorough documentation of all IPM measures and treatment outcomes.
Our company prioritises sustainable pest control solutions that protect your property without harming the environment, aligning with modern regulatory and ethical standards.
Educating the Public About Pest Control Changes
We believe in transparency and empowering our customers with knowledge. We provide accessible resources and training updates to ensure our clients benefit from the highest standards in pest control safety and effectiveness.
Understanding the new rules helps property owners:
Ask informed questions about certification and treatment methods.
Recognise the importance of choosing certified and responsible pest control professionals.
Stay updated with evolving regulations and best practices.
Farmers and landowners are primary custodians of the UK landscape and its wildlife. This is a huge responsibility for which they receive insufficient recognition. Controlling rodents without putting wildlife at risk is part of that responsibility. thinkwildlife.org
Why PGM Pest Control are Leading the Way in Responsible Pest Management
We are proud to be ahead of the curve. Our team is:
Actively engaged in CPD to meet and exceed CRRU requirements.
Embedding IPM strategies into every service we deliver.
Staying up-to-date with CRRU, BPCA and NPTA training and guidance.
Committed to responsible rodenticide use that protects your property and the environment.
Our award-winning track record demonstrates not only our effectiveness but also our dedication to doing things the right way—for our clients, for public health, and for the future of pest control.
We have always followed the CRRU Best Code of Practice, because pests are our passion!
You can read more about how we adhere to Responsible Pest Control in Herefordshire & Worcestershire: Our Commitment to the CRRU Code
Conclusion
With the 2026 CRRU amendments on the horizon, choosing a trusted pest control company that is certified, compliant, and committed to sustainability is more crucial than ever. Our award-winning service stands ready to meet these challenges head-on, offering peace of mind through expert knowledge, professional integrity, and environmentally responsible practices.
If you want to work with a environmentally friendly pest control company that is already embracing these changes, committed to excellence, and trusted by industry standards, get in touch with us today.
Together, we can keep pests under control—responsibly, professionally, and with confidence in the future.
Looking for a trusted, certified pest controller who’s already prepared for the 2026 CRRU amendments? Learn about our Green Pest Control soluctions, on How to Be Pest Aware.
Contact our award-winning team today for professional, responsible pest control across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
