This is a question we get asked from time and to time and the answer isn’t as straight forward as many would like. This is because the devil is in the details, so to speak. By this we mean the answer depends on many factors and is not a simple Yes or No answer.
Look at Your Lease
When you moved into your home or apartment, you signed a lease and were given a copy. Dig that lease up and look at the finer details. Here you should find details about who is responsible for pest control. It should clearly say whether you or your landlord ultimately are responsible for pest treatments.
Large Apartment Buildings
According to an agent with pest control in Melbourne, FL., most large apartment complexes have a large staff and pest control is one of their responsibilities. He stated: “rarely have I seen a large apartment complex leave pest control up to the individual residents. This is because a large pest outbreak could hurt their business and even the structure of their building, as in the case with termites.”
State to State
Laws are different when it comes to landlord responsibility depending on which state you live it. It may be worth a Google search or two to see what your state laws are on the topic. The way Colorado, for example, expects landlords to handle pest control may be totally different to the state of Florida.
If Unsure Call the Landlord
A quick call to the landlord should clear things up a bit. You can even ask them if you can hire your own pest control company if you feel that theirs isn’t doing a good enough job. Many times a stand alone unit or home can fall under the responsibility of the renter. In fact, I am sitting here writing this article from a rental home where I am solely responsible for pest control.
It Doesn’t Hurt
It doesn’t hurt to buy some baits and sprays if you are having problem areas around your home. Place a roach motel or bait box in the general area where you have seen roaches pop up. There is also a gel you can apply under the counter which is invisible to visitors. Just make sure pets or children cannot get to it.
Make sure to clean up really well every night before you go to bed. If pests cannot find anything to eat or drink, it lessens the likelihood that they return. It only takes one time of them hitting the jackpot to encourage them to come back time and time again.
Make sure cracks in the walls and screen windows and doors are patched. These are the most common entry points for pests. As far as your cat or dog, make sure they are wearing a flea collar and get the occasional flea bath. Pets are the #1 one way fleas get into a home. Fleas are experts at hitching a ride then setting up shop.
Feel free to reach out to your neighborhood pest control agent today. You will be glad you did.
