While it’s very common to spot pigeon poo on roofs and it might seem harmless, it can actually result in a long list of problems for both your health and your home, as well as potentially stalling your renovation plans.
Not only can excessive amounts of pigeon droppings corrode brickwork and lead to drainage problems, but it can also become a serious health hazard if it is disturbed during cleaning or construction work.
To find out when it’s time to remove it, how to do so safely, and how it could interfere with your renovation plans, keep reading – we spoke with two experts to learn more.
How do I remove pigeon poo from my roof?
Removing pigeon poo from your roof isn't as simple as getting a bucket of warm water and wiping it away. James Rhoades, Founder of ThermoPest, advises that when dealing with a large area or an enclosed space, such as lofts and roof voids, professional treatment is strongly recommended due to health risks and the level of contamination.
"We wear personal protective equipment, use respirators, apply specialist disinfectants, follow controlled waste removal procedures, and sometimes employ negative air systems to prevent spreading harmful particles," he explains. "The area should be sanitised first to reduce airborne contamination before any removal starts."
James Rhoades is the founder of ThermoPest a nationwide specialist in heat-treatment bed bug eradication. BPCA and NPTA member, working with homeowners, hotels, HMOs and councils across the UK. His team also offer humane bird control.
When does pigeon poo need to be removed?
As soon as you notice a visible build-up, detect strong odours, observe nesting activity, or see contamination around entrances, roofs, lofts, balconies, or HVAC systems, James Rhoades says it’s time to remove the pigeon poo.
"We recommend removing droppings before any house renovation, roofing, insulation, or electrical work. Once droppings dry out and are disturbed, contaminated dust particles can become airborne and spread throughout the property," he warns.
Can pigeon poo damage my home?
Yes – since pigeon droppings are highly acidic, they can cause damage to your property if left untreated, confirms James Rhoades.
From corroding brickwork, metal, paint, stone, solar panels, roofing materials, and ventilation systems to blocking gutters and drains (which can lead to structural problems), pigeon poo can cause more issues than you might initially think. If this is something you've noticed, our guide on solar panel pigeon proofing will be helpful.
James warns that older buildings and loft spaces are particularly at risk, as you may not notice the damage straight away.
Can pigeon poo delay my renovation?
Potentially. If you have large amounts of pigeon droppings on your roof and renovation work is scheduled, workers may refuse to do the job, which could delay the project.
"Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), construction workers may be at risk from harmful micro-organisms during property renovation," says Andrew Boast, Property Specialist at SAM Conveyancing. "Consequently, they are within their rights to refuse to undertake any work until the pigeon guano has been safely removed."
"We have seen projects halted because contamination was found beneath insulation, in roof spaces, or around ventilation systems. In some cases, timber, insulation, or ceiling materials may also need to be replaced if the contamination has been present for a long time," adds James Rhoades.
Andrew is the CEO, Executive Director & Co-Founder of SAM Conveyancing, having guided thousands of clients through the complex process of buying a home both personally and through his teams of expert solicitors, surveyors and mortgage advisers.
Are pigeon droppings a health hazard?
Yes, pigeon droppings are a health hazard and can potentially carry bacteria, fungal spores, parasites, and pathogens linked to respiratory illnesses and infections.
James Rhoades says they are particularly dangerous when disturbed during cleaning or construction work, especially in poorly ventilated areas or properties with heavy, long-term infestations.
"Whilst pigeons may appear as a nonchalant neighbour, what they leave behind can be costly to your property. You should take preventative action before the damage to your property becomes a costly repair bill," concludes Andrew Boast.
If you found this helpful, you may also want to read how to stop birds eating grass feed and why using mothballs to stop pigeons is a bad idea.
