You’re enjoying a quiet, laidback evening in your San Francisco Bay home when suddenly, you get a call from a tenant. They’ve spotted an unwelcome guest skittering across the floor of their apartment, and they don’t know what to do (or even what the pest is). Is it a cockroach? A spider? A mouse?
You know you need to call in the professionals to deal with the problem for you. Pests are an absolute nightmare, causing more than $17 billion to home- and business owners each year. Termites alone can cause up to $5 billion in property damage each year.
Pest control isn’t just about getting rid of those unpleasant creatures that go bump in the night. It’s key for maintaining a healthy, sanitary living environment, particularly in densely populated areas like San Jose, the San Francisco Bay, and the East Bay Area. Left unchecked, they can cause property damage, health issues, and a whole lot of stress.
Yet you might be concerned, wondering how invasive the process of getting rid of these pests will be. Where does pest control spray in apartments? Will it disrupt your daily routine or that of your residents?
In this post, we’ll cover the strategies pest control companies use to get rid of pests in apartments – and hopefully, help to set your mind at ease.
What Are Some Common Pests Found in Apartments?
Different pests require different treatment strategies. Knowing what you’re dealing with can help you understand why pest control companies spray particular areas and give you a better idea of which parts of your apartment building might need to be treated:
- Cockroaches: Cockroaches are a common issue in apartments. They thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread quickly. Regular spraying in kitchens and bathrooms is crucial for keeping these resilient pests at bay.
- Ants: Ants are another frequent invader. They can find their way into your apartment through tiny cracks and crevices. Perimeter treatments and targeted sprays inside the apartment help keep ants out.
- Bed Bugs: Bed bugs are a notorious problem in apartment complexes. They can travel from one unit to another through walls and electrical outlets. Comprehensive treatments, including spraying and heat treatments, are often required to eliminate bed bugs.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that treatment and control strategies vary widely depending on what types of pests are causing you problems and where in the home you’re seeing them. Many pest control companies now use integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which rely on holistic measures that combine strategies for effective pest control.
Prevention is at the heart of pest control with IPM, with regular inspections and maintenance being used to identify potential pests before they become major problems. Mechanical controls are also often used to physically prevent pests from entering the apartment, while chemical controls are used when other methods are not sufficient.
Where Does Pest Control Companies Spray in Apartments?
Pest control services often start by focusing on common areas – those shared by multiple residents of a building. Because they’re so heavily trafficked, these areas tend to be breeding grounds for many different types of pests and need regular, dedicated attention.
Hallways and lobbies, for instance, can easily become infested. Pest control companies often spray these areas to prevent insects like ants and cockroaches from finding their way into individual apartments.
Similarly, laundry rooms are also high-trafficked areas and provide both the warmth and moisture pests love. Regular treatments in these areas are often necessary to prevent bug and rodent infestations.
Finally, fitness centers and pools are also hot spots, since they tend to be warm and moist. Occasionally, there are also food particles left behind in these areas. Comprehensive pest control includes these areas to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for residents.
How Pest Control Companies Spray In Apartments
While common areas are a significant focus, pest control companies also pay close attention to individual units.
The kitchen is usually the first place pest control companies spray. This area is a magnet for pests due to the abundance of food and water sources. Spraying under sinks, behind appliances, and along baseboards helps keep pests like cockroaches and ants at bay.
Bathrooms provide moisture and shelter for various pests. Pest control treatments in these areas often include spraying around plumbing fixtures and drains.
Believe it or not, pests can also make their way into bedrooms. Bed bugs, in particular, are a common issue. Pest control specialists will spray along baseboards, under beds, and around furniture to make sure these pesky critters are kept out.
Exterior Focus Areas
The exterior of the apartment complex is just as important as the interior when it comes to pest control.
Pest control companies often start by treating the perimeter of the building. Spraying around the foundation helps create a barrier that prevents pests from entering.
Landscaping also deserves some attention, as overgrown shrubs and trees can serve as bridges for pests to enter your apartment. Regular spraying and maintenance of landscaping are crucial for keeping pests at bay, so most pest control companies will include this in their treatment plans, too.
Trash areas also can’t be overlooked, as dumpster areas are hotspots for pests. Regular treatments here help reduce the risk of infestations spreading to the rest of the building.
How to Prepare for Pest Control
Once you’ve connected with a pest control company, you’ll need to do a little bit of prep work to make sure you’re ready for treatments. Make sure you communicate this well to your tenants.
First, you’ll need to clear the area, move furniture away from walls, and clear off countertops to give the specialists room to spray target areas. Seal up food items (including pet food) and store them to prevent contamination.
Most importantly, communicate with your company about any pest control issues you or your tenants have noticed. Ask what the technicians need from you, and be sure to follow their instructions carefully.
After pest control treatments, your residents might notice a slight increase in pest activity. This is normal, as the pests are being driven out of their hiding spots, so don’t panic.
Depending on the severity of the infestation, you may need to participate in follow-up treatments. Again, don’t worry – your pest control company will tell you what you need to do.
Choose Banner Pest Control
If you’re looking for a reliable pest control service in the San Francisco Bay, San Jose, or the East Bay Area, Banner Pest Control is your go-to solution. Our expert team uses the latest techniques and products to make sure your apartment remains pest-free.
Don’t wait until pests become a problem. Take control today and enjoy a healthier, happier living space.
Ready to make your apartment building pest-free? Book an appointment with Banner Pest Control and say goodbye to pests for good.
