Rental properties have many benefits, like providing passive income to landlords and affordable temporary housing for those who need it. However, with tenants moving in and out every few years, pests can easily find their way inside. Pest control issues can be complicated, depending on your relationship with your tenant. Here is our advice for getting these issues squared away:
Get it Fixed
Fast action should always be the first step. At the end of the day, this property will still be your responsibility long after your tenant leaves. Keeping the property in a liveable condition is in your best interest. As soon as you have a chance, make an appointment for commercial pest control. If you are able to fix the issue yourself, you can always cancel it, but we would recommend getting an inspection. A pest infestation is not just annoying for your tenant — it’s a long-term safety issue.
Communicate Openly
Once you have a plan for how to handle the pest infestation, let your tenant know. Tell them what steps you will take to control this issue and when. Make sure any appointments work with their schedule, especially if they require preparation. With open communication, you can solve the problem quickly, which will get it off your plate and give your tenant peace of mind. If your tenant doesn’t believe you are actively working to solve the problem, they may be able to leave without repercussion.
Focus on Prevention
The presence of an infestation is not any one person’s fault. The surrounding environment, the age of the home and personal habits can all be factors in causing an infestation. The final step, once the infestation is taken care of, is to focus on preventing another one in the future. Give your tenant advice or resources to prevent infestations. Take your own steps, like maintaining the exterior of the home and having the home sprayed for bugs.
If you find that your rental property has an infestation, our Des Moines commercial pest control experts at Pro-Staff can help. Give us a call at 515-279-7378 or contact us online.