TfL Ref: FOI-2230-2425

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 14 October 2024 asking for information about bed bugs on our bus network. 

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require. 

Specifically you asked:

How many complaints have you had in the past year about bed bugs/ bugs/ insects on buses ? 

*Please note that the table above includes complaints made from January to February 2024, and from September up to 7 October 2024. Due to ongoing recovery from a cyber incident, we are unable to access data to confirm whether any complaints were made between the specified periods. 

What has your response been to these complaints? 

How many buses have been found to be infested with bed bug/ bugs/ insects ?

While we are aware of complaints made, and investigate those, we have not identified any occurrences of bed bugs on our services in the last two years, nor have any reported sightings been confirmed by our operational or cleaning teams. We are also clear in our view that the public transport network is not conducive to the presence of bed bugs, and that, as per NHS guidance, they pose a low risk to human health. However, we are not complacent and we continue to closely monitor our network and take all possible precautionary measures. We continue to implement our rigorous and thorough cleaning measures that have been proven to keep both the interior and exterior of our vehicles clean. We are committed to providing a clean and safe environment on our bus, Tube and rail service for our customers and staff, and we would like to reassure our customers that we continue to maintain our already high standards of cleanliness, so our staff and customers can use the network safely and with confidence.

How often have buses been cleaned on average over the past year ? 

Any cleaning required for buses is carried out by the relevant bus operator. TfL has always had a robust cleaning regime in place across London’s public transport network in order to provide a pleasant and clean environment for our customers. Buses are cleaned at the end of each shift and undergo a deep clean at intervals. Additionally, during the mid-life of a bus, they are also refurbished including replacement of seat covers. 

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal. 

Yours sincerely,

Mary Abidakun

FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London