Some common causes and solutions to consider if rodents are a problem at your rental property

Many landlords, property managers and tenants will experience problems with rodents like rats and mice at some stage. Our climate and the availability of food mean rodent populations often thrive over the warmer periods. As winter draws near and food is less abundant, they often look to nest somewhere warmer and your rental property could provide a great source of shelter and food.

In most cases the problem can be easily solved by laying some traps or bait, but if rodent problems are not addressed then there is potential for serious damage including leaks in pipes and electrical issues. Rats and mice can eat through pipes and cables and have been identified as a cause of house fires. Less serious problems caused by fleas, ants and cockroaches may not have such a drastic effect, but are just as likely to upset tenants and encourage them to move out.

While the general cleanliness and presentation of the property, in particular rubbish and debris (including bushes, leaves, building materials, old cars, boats etc) can have a direct effect on the likelihood of a rodent problem, landlords and property managers should not assume that problems have been caused by tenants as there are other causes too. In some instances, it may be a result of piles of rubbish or unkempt grounds on neighbouring sections, and some trees and nuts have also been known to attract rodents who like to feast on the fruit.

Next time your tenant or property manager reports a problem with rats, mice, cockroaches or fleas then work together to see how you can assist in the process. This can be a traumatic experience for most tenants and a plan needs to be implemented to combat problems quickly.

The best approach is to make an agreement that the landlord will provide traps and/or baits once any rubbish is removed, the property is clean and all lawns are clipped. Trim trees and branches away from the property and make it difficult for rodents to gain entry. Landlords can provide basic rodent traps or off the shelf poison from the hardware store. However, a commitment is needed from the tenants to assist with the process.

Pest control professionals should be used if the problem persists or is serious. It is recommended that cockroach problems be treated by professionals as this can often be a problem that may require multiple treatments. Property owners should also take flea and cockroach problems seriously and not assume it is the tenants fault. Eggs can lay dormant for a long time and problems may have been there before the tenants moved in.

Regular property inspections by owners or property managers to monitor standards of presentation and cleanliness will help avoid rodent problems. Landlords should ensure tenants are following the correct procedures to ensure the occupants safety and educating tenants on how to avoid rodent infestations.

A proactive landlords and property managers can ensure problems are minimised if they manage the problem efficiently. Your property manager can assist by liaising with tenants or providing estimates for professional treatment. Remember that happy tenants are most often long term tenants!

by Simon Allen

Since 1946 the Carnahan name has had a reputation for honest and ethical Real Estate Property Management services in the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, Burbank/Glendale, Los Angeles, Westside and Conejo Valley areas.

The reason for our success is helping owners like you when they need it. Below is a partial list of property management services we provide to help you protect your real estate investment.

• Tenant placement
• Tenant screening (including: credit check, landlord and employment verification, social security trace report, California eviction check and criminal check)
• Regular property inspections
• Accounting and landlord bill payment
• Monthly financial reporting
• Maintenance service and supervision (we use only proven independent vendors)
• Collections
• Evictions
• We supply all the necessary forms to meet California’s Landlord/Tenant laws
• 24 hour emergency phone service
• Advertising to the broadest tenant base possible

Call or e-mail us today for more information. We’re ready to get started!

• Carnahan Property Management services Woodland Hills,West Hills, 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, West Lake Village, Agoura,Toluca Lake, Valley Village, Burbank. Call us at (818) 884-1500 and check if we can service your area.