Rental Properties And Pest Control

No one likes vermin. Cockroaches, fleas, rats, mice, termites, white ants and wasps are all the kinds of nasty pests you dont want to find in a rental property. They should be removed immediately by pest control and fumigation as soon as possible after discovery. Where rental properties are involved there are different situations that see either the tenant or the landlord responsible for this. Whichever category you fall into, you should make sure you know what you are required to do when it comes to pests and vermin. This article will shed some light for you.

Pest control by the owner. -

The owner is required to be responsible for fumigation and pest control at the start of a tenancy. Such is among the many responsibilities of a landlord, specifically in terms of keeping the property clean and in good condition. This said, it is expected of the tenant to seek out some signs of pest infestations when checking the home. They might also like to find out if tenants just before them had dogs or cats on site as the breeding cycle of fleas means they may not appear for a few months. A request for fumigation usually follows after a tenant discovers the existence of pests in the property. The request can happen prior to moving in or during the first few weeks of the tenant in the property. The tenant should ensure this is written into their tenancy agreement by their property management in the special conditions section. If the owner does not have the pest control carried out then they will be in breach of contract and can be required to remedy this breach.

Pest control by the tenant. -

If an infestation of pests occurs after a tenant moves into a rental property and it can be shown it is due to the tenants lack of cleanliness or activity, the tenant will be responsible for eradicating the pests. For example, if a tenant has been residing in a home for some time and an infestation of cockroaches occurs, it is their responsibility. In circumstances where the problem has not occurred through the fault of the tenant other steps can be taken. For instance, if an infestation was caused by their neighbor not following safe and hygienic practices with rubbish in their yard, the matter can be referred to local council to be remedied. If the vermin are present because the property was not in a clean condition when they moved in and can prove this, the owner will be in breach of contract and is responsible.

Be sure to know your rights when renting whether you are a landlord or tenant. It is recommended you enlist the assistance of property managers to ensure matters of pest control run smoothly.