Pigeons have taken over an empty building?
Empty, derelict and neglected buildings quickly become home to large numbers of feral pigeons. Within months, floors, beams and roof spaces can be covered in thick layers of guano, nests, feathers and dead birds – a serious health risk, and a barrier to any sale, redevelopment or refurbishment.
Who we work with
- Property owners, developers and investors
- Landlords, letting agents and managing agents
- Builders and contractors preparing a site
- Councils, housing associations and public bodies
- Farms with unused barns and outbuildings
Our clearance process
- Site survey and risk assessment – we assess access, the scale of the problem and the health and safety risks
- Bird removal – birds are removed humanely and legally, including checking for nests with eggs or young
- Guano and debris clearance – droppings, nests, feathers and carcasses are bagged and removed using appropriate protective equipment, and disposed of through our trusted waste partners
- Sanitising – cleared areas are disinfected
- Proofing – broken windows, gaps and openings are proofed with netting or other barriers so birds can’t get back in
Why it needs professionals
Pigeon droppings can carry bacteria and fungal spores that are harmful if disturbed and breathed in. Clearing a heavily fouled building needs the right protective equipment, careful handling and proper disposal of the waste.
Birds and the law
Feral pigeons can only be controlled in certain circumstances, and all wild birds’ active nests are protected. We make sure all work is carried out within the law, including the relevant NatureScot general licences.
Edinburgh and Fife
We clear buildings across Edinburgh and Fife, from city-centre properties, mills and warehouses to rural steadings and farm buildings. See also guano cleaning and pest proofing.
Derelict Building Pigeon Clearance: frequently asked questions
How long does a clearance take?
It depends on the size of the building and how much guano there is. We'll give you a timescale after the site survey.
Do you remove dead birds?
Yes. Carcasses, nests and droppings are all removed, and the waste is disposed of properly through our trusted waste partners.
Can you stop the pigeons coming back?
Yes. Proofing the openings is part of the job, so the building stays clear.
Can you provide a report for contractors or insurers?
Yes – we can provide a written report of the work carried out.
