Pest control

[Sophia Wang]

We just got a buy-n-hold property (SFH) a few weeks back, and the rehab is done. We did notice there are mouse droppings throughout the house, both 1st and 2nd floors. The house was empty for over 6 months with no food left inside.

We are looking to get the pest control guy to treat the rodent issue, but wanted to ask your experience landlords before we commit to anyone.

1) Some company offers either rodent control or general pest control, the later includes the rodent treatment plus other common pests/bugs/spiders. We do not see any bugs besides rodent droppings in the house. Do you suggest us getting the general pest control, or only the rodent control? Pricing is not that much different.

2) The two companies we inquired charges us anywhere from $140 to $160 for the initial treatment, and $45-$85 for each quarterly treatment. I feel it is a bit high, but not sure if that is the going rate for this kind of service. We are in Richmond, Virginia.

3) Do we need to get the quarterly service for rental properties? We only have another property, and don't have pest control service for that one, but have not received any complaint so far for the last 5 years.

Thank you!