Pest Control Tips for Your Rental Home 

Let’s face it – no one wants to deal with pests.  

The good news is, keeping them out of your rental home is easier than you might think. As a Progress Residential resident, pest prevention is your responsibility, but it’s also a great way to avoid inconvenience from pest-related issues and potential charges later. 

In this blog post, we’ll share a few helpful tips for staying on top of it and keeping those unwanted critters at bay.  

Regular visual inspections are your first and most important line of defense against pests. By identifying early signs of activity, you can stop problems before they start. Rene Campos, National Director of Service at Progress Residential, recommends focusing on these key areas:  

• Entry Points: Check around windows, doors, pipes and vents for cracks and gaps that pests could use to get inside.  

• Pantries and Closets: Look for chewed packaging, droppings or strange odors, as these are common indicators of pest activity.  

• Storage Areas: Inspect cardboard boxes and near windowsills, where insects and rodents often hide. 

Be alert for any animal sounds or unusual damage as well, such as gnawed furniture, chewed wires or holes in walls, which may point to hidden infestations.  

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, prevention is the most effective pest control strategy. Here’s how to keep unwanted visitors out of your rental home:  

• Seal Entry Points: You can use caulk or weather stripping to seal any cracks or gaps around your doors, windows and other openings.  

• Keep it Clean: Maintain a clean home by regularly wiping surfaces, sweeping floors and promptly cleaning up any crumbs or spills. Always store pantry items in airtight containers and avoid leaving food or pet dishes out overnight.  

Hiring a licensed pest control professional to treat the exterior of your home is a smart preventative step, especially in areas more prone to pests. A barrier treatment can dramatically reduce the risk of intrusion before it begins.  

Additional Tips for a Pest-Free Rental Home 

• Garbage Management: Use sealed trash cans and empty them regularly to avoid attracting pests.  

• Pet Care: Clean feeding areas and store pet food securely.  

• Seasonal Checks: Inspect your home at the start of each season, when many pests are most active and looking for shelter indoors.   

• Landscaping: Trim trees and bushes away from your home’s exterior to remove bridges for pests like ants and rodents.  

Keeping pests out of your rental home is all about staying proactive. Regular inspections, good hygiene and a few simple home maintenance habits can go a long way.  

If you notice signs of an infestation or need professional help, be sure to act quickly. Early intervention is key! Taking timely action not only protects your space but helps avoid potential lease violations or charges. When in doubt, reach out to a licensed pest control provider for guidance and support.