Property management often involves juggling priorities and never-ending to-do lists. And no matter the type of property, pest control should be at the top of your list. From office buildings and apartment complexes to shopping centers with food courts, the best pest control options may vary from property to property. The universal key is to stay vigilant. If you're in property management, here's what to consider when it comes to pest control services.
Pests that affect property management companies
Pest infestations can become a big issue for property management professionals. Left unaddressed, pests can impact your business in a number of ways including damaging your reputation and tenant relations, causing property damage, and negatively affecting profitability. Investing in ongoing prevention practices is always the best pest control method, but infestations can still happen. Here are some of the most common pests and how to tackle them.
Related: Pest Control Checklist for Property Managers
Rodents
From chewing wires and eating through drywall to carrying pathogens that may cause disease, rats and mice can be both damaging and unsettling. Make sure to keep up with thorough cleaning and maintenance practices and ensure proper garbage disposal. A professional pest control technician can recommend further exclusion strategies and provide the best treatment for a rodent infestation.
Cockroaches
Known to carry bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, cockroaches are attracted to unsanitary areas. They reproduce quickly, so if you see one cockroach, it's almost certain there are more. Terminix Commercial's Five-Step System for Cockroach Control is a comprehensive strategy that targets the source of the problem to eliminate it as quickly as possible.
Flies
Since they are so common, the best offense against flies is a good defense. From proper sanitation methods that address waste handling and drain cleaning to ultraviolet Insect Light Traps (ILTs), ongoing fly control is all about being proactive. Still, a professional pest management firm representative can provide you with recommendations customized to your facility as well as a treatment plan to assist your sanitation efforts.
Termites
Termites are responsible for billions of dollars in damage in the United States every year. That's why it's important to recognize the signs of a termite infestation and call in the experts to tackle it immediately. From evaluating your property to building a customized plan, pest management professionals have the experience required.
Bed Bugs
A bed bug infestation in a housing complex or office building has the potential to impact and harm people—and damage your business. Make sure you know the signs of bed bugs and make sure your tenants have the tools and information available to report an issue. Bed bugs are unique and controlling them requires a comprehensive plan that targets eggs, nymphs and adults. We suggest you leave bed bugs to the pros, so call a commercial bed bug treatment specialist immediately.
Have a different pest problem you need help with? Learn more about all our pest control services.
Commercial pest control services vary by property-type
Property management can range from apartment complexes and office buildings to retail stores and restaurants. Each property-type will present unique needs and challenges that inform the best pest control strategies. A professional pest control company like Terminix Commercial has the expertise to evaluate your needs and customize an effective treatment strategy. Treatment can range from rodent and wildlife exclusion to baits and traps to comprehensive insect control plans.
Consider these tips by industry:
Retail
The steady stream of customers and merchandise means retail spaces are more vulnerable to pests that spread by hitching a ride such as bed bugs. Regular inspections by a pest control service provider can ensure you catch a problem before it gets out of control. If treatment is needed, it can be done when the store is closed to ensure that it doesn't disrupt your operations or hurt your reputation.
Restaurants
Pests are attracted to food, water, and shelter, all of which a restaurant can provide. Following food safety and food storage regulations is the first step in controlling pests. However, without regular pest-specific inspections, a few pests can become an infestation. You can do these inspections yourself, although trusting a professional for these inspections, as well as any solutions for pests found, is a recommended best practice. The investment in professional help will be worth avoiding possible shutdowns and damage to your reputation.
Apartments
Being proactive about pest control will prove your property is a good place to live and help you retain quality tenants. Regular inspections by a pest control technician can help catch a possible infestation before it gets out of hand and help you identify what needs to be done to prevent pests from entering in the first place.
Some pest management strategies, not all, can be performed by your property management team, but there's no substitute for the experience a pest control technician can bring. From evaluating the conducive conditions in your property to recommending the most efficient treatments, the best pest control is professional pest control.
Ready for us to step in? Call us at 877.837.6464 to schedule a free, no-obligation assessment.
