Dealing with mice - what do you do?

[Tim Richter]

Hi everyone!

I’ve been owning my first multi family for just over a year now. My girlfriend and I live in the upstairs unit and we have a tenant in the downstairs unit paying rent.

Throughout their tenancy I’ve received complaints regarding mice. Speaking with neighbors, this is a common problem in our area. Upon inspection of my tenants apartment it’s obvious why the mice like it there. Common clutter and food is in easy to reach spots for mice. I’ve spoken with her about this, but old habits die hard as they say. I’ve attempted to seal the perimeter of the house and given her traps to put down, but the problem persists.

So, I decided enough is enough, I’ll hire an exterminator. I’ve called a couple places for quotes and was a little surprised after receiving our first quote. $3850.00!!! It does come with a one year guarantee and the option to buy annual warranties for relatively cheap.

My question is what do you do when mice or rats are in your units? Do you bite the bullet and pay a professional or are there other strategies that you use?

Thanks for your responses!

Tim

[Jonathan Styer]

If you've sealed up any mouse hole entrances with steel wool and spray foam, laid down traps then its time to tell the tenant in writing that if they don't stop leaving out snacks for the mice they'll be asked to leave. 4 grand is crazy, you're problem is the tenant.