For those who live in apartments, pest control may seem like an afterthought. Where homeowners have to worry about keeping bushes trimmed away from the house, sealing cracks and crevices and more, apartment life removes some of the maintenance from preventing pests.

However, apartment complexes are some of the toughest structures for controlling pests. The proximity of the units makes it difficult to pinpoint where an issue started. Utilities are often shared, providing a clear pathway for pests to travel from one floor to the next.

Bed bugs, cockroaches, flies, wasps, rodents and birds are just some of the pests that can plague an apartment environment. However, there are steps that you as an apartment dweller can take to lessen the likelihood of an infestation.

Be Wary of Secondhand Furniture

The couch left outside the complex may seem like the perfect addition to your living room, but be careful. Furniture can harbor bed bugs, powder post beetles and more. Be sure to give any secondhand pieces a thorough inspection before bringing into your apartment.

Check Your Deliveries

Cockroaches have been known to hide in cardboard boxes, hitching rides into homes and businesses. Check any boxes before bringing them into your apartment, especially deliveries that may contain food.

Travel Cautiously

Travelers are vulnerable to bed bugs and can bring them back to their home. Follow these tips while traveling to prevent unwanted hitchhikers from stowing away in your bags.

Pest Proofing

Even if you don’t have a yard, you can still safeguard your apartment against pests.

• Dispose of garbage regularly in sealed receptacles.
• Wipe down kitchen countertops 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 container.
• Routinely check under sinks for areas of moisture and repair any leaky pipes.
• Throw away any unneeded clutter such as cardboard boxes and stacks of papers.
• Do not store anything such as blankets under your bed unless they are in a sealed, pest resistant container.

If you see pests in your apartment, contact your facility manager as quickly as possible to determine if pest control is covered in your lease. If you are responsible for your own pest control, contact us today to set up your free inspection.