How to keep pests out of your apartment

Apartment living has its definite perks. Usually cheaper than your average house, less overall upkeep, and the closer sense of community. You may even have a very nice neighbor that lends you things from time to time. It is an attractive form of living for many people. But did you know they can also lend pests?

Apartments are among the most difficult buildings for pest control. The close proximity of units often makes it tough to pinpoint the root cause of a pest infestation, and in some situations, may even increase the infestation. Units share not only walls and floors, but also connected utilities, which create easy pathways for pests to travel. Plus, pests are sneaky and can enter through any open crevice. Whether it be open windows or sliding glass doors, or through ventilation slats for AC units, pests usually always find a way.

Bed bugs, cockroaches, flies, wasps, rodents and birds are just some of the pests that can infest your environment. Some of these pest problems are inevitable, but residents can take steps to limit future infestations. Here are three main tips to avoid a pest encounter in an apartment complex.

Second Hand Furniture

Second hand furniture may seem appealing, but it could be the downfall in trying to save that money if you’re not careful.  It is important to carefully inspect any secondhand items before bringing them into the building and your home as they can harbor bed bugs, powder post beetles and more.

Returning From Travel

You are often susceptible to bed bugs and can unknowingly bring them back from your time away from home. Bed bugs can be found in hotels, various modes of transportation, and also in some unexpected places like movie theaters, retail stores and more, making it very easy to unintentionally bring them home. When returning home, make sure to inspect and vacuum suitcases before storing them away until the next trip. To know how to identify bed bugs in your hotel room, check out our bed bug blog post.

Check Packages

Deliveries offer another avenue for many pests that may hitch rides inside via cardboard boxes. Some packages often have a long journey to get to their final destinations and can pick up pests at any point. Check boxes before bringing them indoors to limit potential infestations. Cockroaches are common in deliveries containing any foods.

Tenants can also participate in general pest proofing around their apartments by following these simple to-dos:

• Dispose of garbage regularly in sealed containers.
• Wipe down kitchen counter tops and sweep floors to remove crumbs and residue from spills.
• Vacuum at least once a week.
• Keep pet bowls clean and wipe up any spilled food or water around them promptly.
• Store pantry food items, and dry pet food in a sealed plastic containers.
• Routinely check under sinks for areas of moisture and repair any leaky pipes.

If you  see a pest in your apartment or in a common area,  contact your facility manager to determine if professional pest control is covered under the terms of the lease and to discuss how to improve the conditions.