Even with a single property, pest control can seem like a never-ending chore. If you manage multiple properties, the problem only gets bigger. Pests rarely work alone, so even if it seems like a small problem, any number of pests can quickly spiral out of control. The trick to staying ahead of the pests is to practice consistent preventative maintenance.
It’s important to understand each property’s needs and establish a routine to keep pests away. Every property’s needs will be different, but below we’ll list a few general tips to help you form a foundation for your pest control plan.
Property Managers’ Pest Control Responsibilities
Keeping your buildings pest-free is your responsibility as a property manager. It’s important to act fast if one of your tenants notices pests on the property; staying on top of these concerns is the best way to ensure everyone on your property stays safe from pests. Here are a few routine tasks you can perform to reduce your property’s risk of pest infestation.Weekly Tasks
Pest control providers can advise you on the best choices for your property, but it’s important to remember that there are a few things only you can do. Each week, plan to:- Ensure garbage and recycling pick-ups to keep waste areas clean.
- Clean up dumpster pads and disposal areas of any leftover garbage.
- Watch for evidence of pest activity like droppings, nests, or structural damage.
- Follow up on any pest sightings that occurred during the week.
Seasonal Tasks
Pest activity changes every season, and your routine should too. Here’s what to plan for as the year goes on:- Replace any worn door or window seals.
- Patch or replace torn screens.
- During hotter months, increase garbage pickup frequency.
- Keep tenants up to date on new seasonal protocols.
- Add or change vent covers to prevent pest entry.
- Clean gutters and drains to prevent standing water; mosquitoes and other pests lay eggs there.
Annual Tasks
Even if you haven’t had any pest sightings, it’s important to maintain yearly inspections. This gives you the best chance of preventing an infestation before it can even start. You should consider the following measures depending on what your pest control professional recommends:- Flushing disused drains to target fly larvae.
- Setting discreet traps for smaller pests like ants.
- Repairing structural wear and tear that could allow pest entry – remember that mice and rats can squeeze through any gap large enough for their heads!
- Make sure your tenants are aware of the changing pest control measures.