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!

[Prashant P.]

As mentioned above, pest control is very important and something that gets over looked. People can be very nice but sometimes can be very dirty and attract unwanted guests. Then you will get calls that there are bugs in the house.

Joel has it right. If you have the time you should do your own pest control. Most of the service companies will just spray that outside edges of the house and large open spaces. If you do it yourself you get into tighter spaces where bugs and rodents tend to hide.

An added benefit is that this give you an oppurtunity to inpsect your property every few months. You can see if the tenant is maintaining the property and causing damage.