The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is urging pest management businesses to review their HR processes following the introduction of the Employment Rights Act 2025, which came into force on 6 April 2026.
The trade body says the changes will have a direct impact on how companies manage staff, covering areas including sick pay, family leave, redundancy and workplace protections.
Among the most significant updates is the introduction of day-one rights for both paternity leave and parental leave, removing previous service requirements and giving employees immediate access to these entitlements.
Statutory sick pay (SSP) has also been reformed, now starting from the first day of illness. The lower earnings limit has been removed, meaning all workers are eligible, with payments set at either £123.25 per week or 80% of average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.
BPCA is also highlighting increased risks around redundancy processes. Employers who fail to follow correct collective consultation procedures could now face protective awards of up to 180 days’ gross pay per employee, doubling previous penalties.
Further changes include new protections for workers reporting sexual harassment, now covered under whistleblowing law, and the launch of a new enforcement body, the Fair Work Agency, which will oversee compliance with key employment rights.
The association is advising members to act quickly by reviewing employment contracts, updating policies and ensuring managers understand the changes. Businesses must also now keep detailed records of annual leave and holiday pay for six years.
BPCA warned that the Act is being introduced in phases, with additional changes expected through to 2027, and encouraged firms to plan ahead to avoid compliance risks.
For members needing support, BPCA pointed to its Quest member benefit, which offers compliance reviews and HR advice to help businesses adapt to the new requirements.
