In short
Not if it would damage an active nest. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 it is an offence to intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built. If birds are nesting in the eaves, the work waits until they have finished.
This is a job for our Gutters, Fascias & Soffits service.
Why the eaves attract birds
The gap behind a fascia, a missing soffit board or a loose gutter is exactly the kind of sheltered spot birds look for. House martins build under eaves, and swifts, starlings and sparrows use gaps in the roof edge.
What the law says
Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 makes it an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take a wild bird, or to take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while that nest is in use or being built.
What it means for your job
- We check the eaves before we start.
- If there is an active nest, the work on that section waits until it is no longer in use.
- Sections well away from the nest can sometimes go ahead.
- Outside the nesting season, it is worth getting the work done before birds move back in.