In the course of extreme weather conditions, unwanted pests such as rodents can become a primal issue for rental homes. In the case that the weather gets cold, rodents look for warmth and a stable food supply, making homes an inviting shelter. But on the other hand, during hot weather, rodents may invade residential areas searching for water, consequently increasing the infestation risk. In that event, with their easily available food and water sources, our homes can be very appealing to rodents, in particular mice, squirrels, rats, and other pests.
Eliminate items attractive to pests
Keeping your rental home free of pests can be laborious, however, a few basic actions can go a long way in maintaining a rodent-free space. It’s imperative to take on proactive techniques to eliminate potential food sources that might appeal to these undesirable guests. Properly storing and disposing of food and waste and keeping your living space clean and tidy are relevant ways to prevent infestations.
Make sure to hastily remove or securely store pet food, bird seed, grass seed, and fallen fruit from fruit trees in sturdy plastic containers with securely sealed lids to avoid attracting pests such as rodents, insects, and other animals.
Seal entry points around the home
Another core task to keep rodents out is to seal all potential entry points around the home’s foundation, eaves, and soffits. Any gaps or holes should be filled with steel mesh, caulk, or plaster, and watched often to keep the seals intact.
Soaking cotton balls with peppermint oil and placing them where small bugs can seemingly enter is a natural remedy that has been reported to work well (this way, at the same time, leaves an awesome smell).
If you are certainly obligated to provide pest control to your residents (a lot of states do not require owners of single-family homes to provide pest control, so look to your local statutes) and natural systems aren’t keeping the pests out, you may need to use traps or hire an exterminator to handle the problem. It goes without saying that using traps, poisons, or other ways poses significant risks to residents and their pets unless used selectively and properly.
Maintain regular rodent-proofing
As a property owner, encompassing rodent-proofing to your long list of weatherizing tasks may sound like one heavy responsibility too many. That being said, it’s very important to keep in mind that regular maintenance is key to keeping your property rodent-free. It can be exhausting to always take into account to check the foundations and eaves of each property and monitor the home for its dealing of potential pest-attracting food sources, still, it’s a task that can’t be neglected.
You could take care of all these tasks yourself, or you could trust them to Real Property Management Investor’s Choice. Our comprehensive property management programs not only keep rodents out but also secure the overall integrity of your property, keeping your residents glad and your investment out of harm. Contact us online or call us at 615-810-9578 today and learn about all of our property management services.
Originally Published on September 28, 2018
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