As a landlord, it’s important to understand your responsibilities with regards to your tenant and rental property. Ensuring you adhere to the guidelines in the rental contract can help nurture an agreeable relationship with your tenant for years to come. Pest control can be one of the gray areas in your agreement that causes confusion. However, it’s also one of the most important home maintenance tasks to keep your tenants healthy and your rental home in great condition.
When Tenants Are Responsible for Pest Control
Your tenant agreed to the terms you presented in the rental contract. Therefore, the specific pest control responsibilities discussed in this contract must be followed. In most cases, he or she is only responsible for paying for pest treatment if infestations are present due to their actions. Your tenant may be responsible for pest control if he or she is actively:
- Neglecting the home’s cleanliness
- Leaving out food and attracting bugs
- Housing pets with fleas or ticks
- Not taking out the garbage regularly
- Allowing moisture to build up in the home
Your rental agreement should clearly outline home cleanliness standards for the prevention of infestations. If these standards are neglected, the tenant must obtain pest control services that he or she is financially responsible for.
When Landlords Are Responsible for Pest Control
As a landlord, your job is to ensure the rental home or building remains inhabitable. General pest control is your responsibility because it’s necessary to maintain livable and workable conditions. Pest infestations that occur naturally must be addressed by you. Common pests that infest the home and require treatment include:
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Termites
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Ants
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Cockroaches
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Wasps
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Spiders
In these cases, you must obtain a pest control service and you are responsible for paying the bill.
Keep Your Property Pest-Free with Critter Control® of Orlando
No matter who is responsible for pest control in your specific situation, it is important to address these infestations as soon as possible. Pest infestations are unhealthy, dangerous, and can cause additional damage to your rental property. Whether your rental property needs general pest control or you suspect an infestation, our team of professionals at Critter Control® of Orlando can help. To schedule a consultation and free estimate, call us today at 407-295-7194.
