Property Manager – Winnetka – Pest Control
Pest Control Duties for Renters & Property Managers
Pest infestations are a nightmare for renters and property management alike. Insects, rodents and other pests cannot only lead to annoyance and frustration, but can also carry harmful diseases and cost thousands of dollars to eliminate entirely. Additionally, this summer’s hot, dry weather has created the perfect conditions for pest infestations across the United States.
Thankfully, there are a few simple ways that renters and property maintenance can work together to prevent insect and rodent infestations. First of all, good communication is a must. Pest control should be discussed openly and in a timely manner before the problem gets out of control.
Secondly, since dealing with an infestation can sometimes be an involved, intensive process, both parties should be willing to do their part when it comes to prevention. For example, the renters can handle prevention indoors while the property staff handles the outdoor areas.
Indoor Pest Management
To prevent indoor infestations, follow these steps to safeguard your home:
- Keep counters, sinks and other areas of the home free of food and scraps. Dishes should be washed daily, and leftovers should be refrigerated in air-tight containers.
- Clean and maintain low-traffic areas such as attics, basements, closets, crawl spaces and other storage areas. Insects love to gather in these places, so keep them tidy and dry at all times.
- Rearrange furniture and dust often. Insects won’t have a chance to nest in peace if furniture is cleaned, dusted and moved around regularly.
- Keep windows and sills in good repair. Cracked glass and window sills provide a point of entry for bugs of all kinds. Seal all cracks, and replace broken windows as quickly as possible.
- Install door sweeps. These thin pieces of plastic attach to the bottoms of doors to keep pests and rodents outdoors where they belong.
- Purchase screens for windows and doors. If screens are ripped or torn, repair or replace them immediately. Other areas that can be screened include chimneys and exhaust vents.
Outdoor Pest Management
Outdoor pest control can easily prevent indoor infestations. Follow these steps for outdoor pest prevention:
- Keep grass, gardens and shrubbery trimmed neatly. Insects love tall grass and unruly lawns, so keep these areas under control in order to prevent infestations.
- Keep gutters clean, dry and free of debris. Many insects love to nest in damp, clogged gutters, so check these areas regularly.
- Keep outdoor trash and recycle bins clean and covered. To keep insects and rodents at bay, make sure bins are sturdy and have lids that snap tightly in place.
- Like indoor storage space, outdoor storage areas should be swept, dusted and rearranged periodically. This includes garages, carports and areas under porches and steps.
- Keep tree branches trimmed, and have any dead or decaying trees removed immediately.
- Inspect roofs periodically. Shingles should be maintained, and damaged areas should be repaired or replaced immediately.
Another major aspect of pest control is inspecting both indoor and outdoor areas regularly. A pest inspection can take very little time, and can prevent the loss of time, energy and money down the line. If a problem is too large for you or your property manager to handle, or if you find evidence of poisonous or otherwise harmful insects during a pest inspection, contact an exterminator immediately.
Carnahan Property Management Services Woodland Hills,West Hills,Bell Canyon, Calabasas, Canoga Park, Tarzana, Reseda, Topanga, Encino, Northridge, Van Nuys,North Hills,Chatsworth, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, North Hollywood, West Hollywood, San Fernando Valley, Granada Hills, Mission Hills, Simi Valley, WestLake Village, Agoura,Toluca Lake, Valley Village, Burbank. Call us at (818) 884-1500 to check if we can service your area. 60+ years of service.
