When unwelcome pests enter a rental house, they can cause all types of complications for residents as well as the landlord. Rodents are especially problematic in the wintertime because they try to find a warm house with a consistent food source to nest in as the weather gets colder. Our houses normally have both, making them an appealing shelter for mice, squirrels, rats, and other pests.
Keeping pests out of your Mill Creek rental home can be difficult, but there are a few things you can do that will help ensure your rental home is rodent-free. For example, it’s best to dispose of food sources that may attract rodents. Pet food, birdseed, grass seed, and fallen fruit from trees should be cleaned up or stacked in heavy plastic canisters with airtight lids.
You should also cover all possible entrances around the home’s foundation, eaves, and soffits. Any cracks or holes should be filled with steel mesh, caulk, or plaster and checked regularly to keep the seals intact. Soaking cotton balls with peppermint oil and placing them in areas where rodents might show up is also a strategy that will keep rodents away and keep your house smelling fresh.
If your state requires you to provide pest control for your rental property (many states do not so check with your local statutes) and natural methods aren’t working, you may want use traps or hire an exterminator. However, be aware that traps, poisons, or other alternative methods may put your residents and their pets in danger.
As a landlord, rodent-proofing your rental property may seem like a complicated, time-consuming task. It can be difficult to remember to examine the foundations and eaves of each property, as well as monitor the home for any pest-attracting food sources.
You could do it all yourself, or you could have Real Property Management North Puget Sound take care of all these tedious tasks. We offer property management services that include monitoring and maintaining the quality of your property, so the pests stay outside and your residents stay happy. Keep your rental properties rodent-free all winter long by calling our team of experts today! Contact us online or call us at 425-903-8500 today to learn more about our property management services.