When it comes to rental properties, pest control can be a source of confusion for both landlords and renters. Whether it’s cockroaches in an apartment or termites in a rental home, the question of who is responsible for pest control often comes up. Understanding your responsibilities, preventative measures, and how to work together as a tenant-landlord team can help maintain a happy and comfortable living environment.
Who is Responsible for Pest Control When Renting?
The general rule of thumb is that landlords are responsible for maintaining a habitable living space. This includes taking care of major issues like structural repairs and pest control, as long as the problem is not directly caused by the tenant (like in cases of extreme negligence).
Particularly in cases of mice, termites, cockroaches, or other invasive pests, landlords need to take the lead in hiring an exterminator to deal with the situation quickly.
The laws regarding pest control vary by state and locality. Make sure you do research for your specific area. Then, check out Plunkett’s service area for reliable and effective pest control.
For the Renters: What You Need to Know About Pest Control
If you’re a renter with a pest problem, you’re probably wondering if you can or should contact a pest control company. If you’ve got a pest problem as a tenant, let your landlord know. Then, they can give Plunkett’s a call. However, there are things you can do to help keep your space comfortable and pest-free, including:
- Take out the trash regularly. Avoid overflowing bins and don’t let garbage sit overnight (especially if it has food waste).
- Keep the kitchen clean. Wipe down counters, sweep floors, and clean up spills right away. Crumbs and grease are pest magnets.
- Store food properly. Keep pantry items in sealed containers and refrigerate perishables. Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
- Report leaks or moisture. Pests love water. Let your landlord know about dripping faucets or water-damaged areas immediately. If standing water is easily removed, you can clean it up yourself.
- Declutter and vacuum often. Less clutter means fewer hiding places. Vacuum weekly, especially along walls and under furniture.
- Don’t prop doors or windows open. Keep screens in good shape and doors closed to keep pests from wandering in. If you notice small gaps and cracks around doors and windows, ensure those are sealed by talking to your landlord.
For the Landlords: What You Need to Know About Pest Control
As a landlord, one of your primary responsibilities is to ensure your rental property is pest-free and in good condition. If a pest problem arises, you should act promptly to address the issue.
A few preventative pest measures you can take as a landlord include:
- Sealing entry points. Inspect and repair gaps around windows, doors, vents, and utility lines where pests can enter.
- Fixing water leaks and water damage promptly. Standing water and damp conditions attract pests like cockroaches, ants, and rodents.
- Keeping common areas clean. In apartments and shared spaces, ensure regular cleaning and trash removal in hallways, laundry rooms, and dumpsters.
- Scheduling regular preventative pest control services. Routine treatments from Plunkett’s help prevent issues before they start.
- Act quickly on pest reports. Address tenant complaints promptly to prevent the issue from spreading.
What About at the End of a Lease? Who Deals with Pest Control?
Typically, landlords are responsible for ensuring a rental property is pest-free. However, they may choose to include pest control as part of the cleaning or damage deposit, depending on the tenancy agreement. Either way, it’s the responsibility of the landlord to schedule the necessary pest control services.
Communication is Key & Professional Help is a Must
Pest control in rental properties is best handled with professional assistance. By taking proactive steps to prevent infestations and by both parties understanding their responsibilities, a stress- and pest-free living environment is possible.
Are you a landlord in need of professional pest control for your rental property? Plunkett’s offers expert extermination services tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule a service!
