Wherever you live or whatever kind of property you manage, it’s important that you know who is responsible for keeping pests at bay.

In some cases, strata or apartment pest control is a landlord’s duty. In others, the responsibility lands with tenants. So, when is pest control up to you, and just how much help should you expect from owners or renters in apartments and strata spaces?

Here’s the simple answer.

Landlords or Tenants? Whose Problem Is It?

In both residential and commercial properties, pest control requirements can vary depending on the state you live in and how pests are affecting the space.

Generally speaking, landlords are responsible for maintaining common spaces, and that includes controlling pests. Body corporate has an obligation to facilitate adequate pest control in shared features of any apartment building or strata scheme.

What does this mean?

If you’re managing an apartment complex or a block of strata homes, you are responsible for pest control to communal areas, such as shared gardens or laundry facilities. If there is a shared entry way, a shared carpark, or a shared pool or gym, it’s up to you to keep this free from invaders.

Are tenants responsible for apartment and strata pest control too?

Yes! Tenants have individual responsibility for their own private spaces. A tenant needs to take steps to control pests inside their dwelling. In some cases where an individual’s poor hygiene or negligence results in the proliferation of pests, the tenant bears financial responsibility for controlling the problem and executing repairs.

Why Stay on Top of Pest Control?

In apartments and strata buildings, pest control requirements can differ greatly according to the specifics of the property, its jurisdiction, and its inhabitants.

How large is the lot? How many tenants live onsite, and how closely packed are their dwellings? How many shared spaces do you have? How old is the building, and what special features does it include?

All these factors can influence pest control needs.

Regardless of whose responsibility it is to stay on top of pesty control, never let it slip. By maintaining proper pest control, you can resolve problems quickly when they arise and avoid a few pesky critters turning into a much more damaging and costly problem. Call in your local pest control experts and find out what commercial and residential services they have to offer.