If you’re renting a home, dealing with pests can be a frustrating and stressful experience. While it’s the landlord’s responsibility to ensure that the property is pest-free, there are steps you can take to help prevent and address pest infestations.
Steps To Take When You Have Pests In A Rented Home
Here’s what to do when you have pests in a rented home:
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Report the Issue to Your Landlord
The first step in dealing with a pest infestation in a rented home is to report the issue to your landlord. They are responsible for ensuring that the property is free of pests and should take action to address the issue.
Make sure to report the issue in writing and keep a record of all communications with your landlord or property manager. This can help protect you if the problem is unresolved and you need further action.
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Follow Any Instructions from Your Landlord
Once you’ve reported the issue, your landlord may provide instructions on addressing the problem. This may include scheduling a pest inspection or treatment or taking steps to prevent pests from entering the property.
It’s critical to follow these instructions to the best of your ability, as failure may result in additional pest problems or damage to the property.
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Keep Your Home Clean and Tidy
One of the most effective ways to prevent pests from entering your rented home is to keep it clean and tidy. This means regularly cleaning and vacuuming floors and surfaces, washing dishes promptly, and storing food in sealed containers.
Removing any clutter or debris from the property is paramount, as this can provide a hiding place for pests. By keeping your home clean and tidy, you can help prevent pest infestations and make it easier to address any issues that do arise.
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Avoid DIY Pest Control
While trying to address a pest infestation on your own may be tempting, avoid DIY pest control. Many over-the-counter termite control Sydney products are ineffective or dangerous, worsening the problem.
Instead, rely on professional pest control services to address pest issues in your rented home. Your landlord or property manager should be responsible for arranging these services, but if they do not, you may need to organize them yourself and seek reimbursement from your landlord.
Know Your Rights As A Tenant
As a tenant, you have rights when dealing with pest infestations in your rented home. Your landlord or property manager is responsible for ensuring that the property is free of pests and must take action to address any issues that arise.
If your landlord or property manager does not address a pest infestation, you may be able to withhold rent or terminate your lease without penalty. However, you must follow the proper legal procedures and seek advice from a lawyer or tenant advocacy group before taking action.
Dealing with pests in a rented home can be frustrating, but you should follow these steps to prevent and address infestations. Services like birds control Sydney are specialized; professionals have the tools and experience to handle these jobs to industry standards.
