Managing apartments comes with a lot of responsibilities, and pest control is a major one. Nobody wants to deal with creepy crawlers or buzzing pests, especially your residents. When pests become an issue, it’s not just a nuisance—it can also harm your reputation and bottom line. That’s why having a solid plan for pest control is key. Let’s break down what property managers should and shouldn’t do when it comes to keeping pests away.
Dos: Proactive Pest Control Measures
Do Educate Residents About Prevention
Many pest problems start because of simple habits like leaving food out or not taking the trash out regularly. Sharing tips with residents about keeping their homes pest-free can go a long way. Simple reminders like sealing leftovers, keeping counters clean, and reporting issues early help prevent infestations.
Including pest control tips in newsletters or welcome packets is a smart way to educate without sounding overbearing.
Do Make Pest Control Part of Your Amenities
Adding pest control to your resident benefit package (RBP) isn’t just convenient—it’s a big selling point. Residents love knowing pest services are included. This way, they won’t hesitate to report issues quickly, and you can address them before they escalate. Plus, it simplifies things by avoiding debates over who’s responsible for pest-related costs.
For example, Pest Share’s services allow residents to schedule pest treatments directly without involving property managers, saving time and reducing stress for everyone.
Do Partner with Reliable Pest Control Providers
Choosing the right pest control service is critical. You want a company that’s responsive, effective, and easy to work with. Look for professionals with a strong track record and technology that simplifies the process, like advanced pest identification tools.
Proactive companies also monitor for termites or other property-damaging pests and handle the claims process so you don’t have to get involved. This ensures pests are dealt with fast while protecting your properties.
Do Regular Property Inspections
Even if everything seems fine, pests can hide in plain sight. Regular inspections can catch small issues before they turn into big problems. Pay attention to common trouble spots like dumpsters, kitchens, basements, and landscaping. Make sure vents are covered, entry points are sealed, and leaks are fixed promptly.
Some pests, like rodents, can sneak through tiny gaps. A little prevention saves a lot of headaches later.
Do Address Complaints Promptly
When residents report pests, act quickly. Delaying solutions can make problems worse and cause frustration. A fast response shows your residents that you care about their comfort and safety, which builds trust and satisfaction.
Make sure there’s an easy way for residents to report pest concerns, such as an online form or app. Quick action isn’t just about solving the problem; it’s also about preventing negative reviews.
Do Keep Records
Document every pest control visit, complaint, and solution. This helps you track patterns and identify recurring issues. It’s also useful if you need to show owners or investors how you’re protecting their properties. With organized records, you can prove your proactive approach to pest management.
Don’ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Ignore Small Problems
It’s easy to dismiss one or two ants or a single cockroach sighting. But pests multiply quickly. Ignoring the issue could lead to full-blown infestations, higher costs, and unhappy residents. Always investigate even minor complaints to ensure the problem doesn’t grow.
Don’t Rely on DIY Solutions
DIY pest control may seem tempting because it’s cheap, but it’s rarely effective. Residents might try sprays or traps that only solve part of the issue, allowing pests to come back. Professional services have the tools and expertise to deal with pests thoroughly and prevent their return.
Encourage residents to report problems rather than handling them on their own. DIY efforts often lead to frustration and delayed solutions.
Don’t Blame Residents
While education is key, pest problems shouldn’t turn into a blame game. Even if a resident’s habits contributed to an infestation, focus on solving the problem rather than pointing fingers. Blaming residents damages relationships and may discourage them from reporting future issues.
Instead, take a collaborative approach. Offer tips for preventing pests and reassure residents that your goal is to create a pest-free environment for everyone.
Don’t Cut Corners on Maintenance
Pests love areas with poor maintenance. Broken screens, leaky pipes, and overflowing dumpsters are like invitations to infestations. Neglecting these issues not only attracts pests but also reflects poorly on property management.
Stay on top of maintenance tasks, especially in shared areas like laundry rooms and playgrounds. Cleanliness and good upkeep go hand in hand with effective pest control.
Don’t Wait for Residents to Complain
Many residents don’t report pest issues right away because they’re embarrassed or think the problem isn’t serious. Waiting for complaints means you might not hear about an issue until it’s widespread. Regular communication and inspections help uncover hidden problems.
By being proactive, you can find and fix issues before they escalate. It also reassures residents that pest control is a priority.
Why Pest Control Matters for Your Business
Pest control isn’t just about keeping bugs away. It impacts your reputation, resident satisfaction, and even your revenue. A pest-free property is more attractive to prospective residents, helping you fill vacancies faster. It also shows owners and investors that you’re serious about protecting their assets.
Managing pest control doesn’t have to be a hassle. Pest Share offers tools and services that simplify the process for property managers and residents alike. From advanced pest identification software to seamless scheduling, Pest Share helps keep your properties pest-free while reducing stress.
When you include pest control in your RBP, it’s a win for everyone. Residents feel taken care of, properties are protected, and your workload becomes more manageable.
