Condo Pest Control In Toronto

Are Condo Associations Responsible for Condo Pest Control?

Does a condo have pest control? This is one of the most important questions those looking for condos ask. According to the Condo Act, it is the responsibility of the Condo Association to clean and do pest control condo in the building’s common elements. It is the responsibility of the unit owner to keep their condo unit clean and do pest control in the common elements where they have exclusive use and their units.

The Unique Challenges of Condo Pest Control

When you have a pest infestation at home, you simply call a pest control company. You also have greater control of the pest situation since you do not share such things as dumpsters. However, things are not so straightforward with condo pest control.

• Lack of clear distinction of who is responsible for pest control in a condo: According to the Condominium Act of 1998, the tenant is responsible for pest control for the condo unit and in common elements where they have exclusive use. The condo association is responsible for pest control in the common elements.
• Infestation from other units: Pests can easily move from one unit to the other due to shared flooring and walls.
• Shared common areas: Shared common areas like recreation rooms, pool houses, and trash areas increase your pest exposure.

Condo Pest Control: The Impact of Location

When picking your condo unit, you should be aware that there are common areas like dumpsters, recreation rooms, and pool houses that expose you to pest infestation. Proximity to wooded areas also exposes you. Even if you do condo pest control successfully, there is always a risk of re-infestation.

Dumpsters are popular for pests that feed on leftovers, such as rats and cockroaches. Even with regular emptying of the dumpster, there are always pests scavenging for food, and when they do not get the food or if they want to hide, nearby units are the perfect spots. Wooded areas are popular with pests that use them for hiding and reproducing, such as rodents.

Note the condo association is responsible for pest control in a condo in these common areas. However, this does not prevent infestation. You should take measures to avoid infestation if you live near wooded areas or dumpsters, such as regular inspections and always maintaining cleanliness.

Effective Pest Control for Condo Units

Condo pest control is the responsibility of both the unit owner and the condo association. Different pests require different pest control approaches. Tried and tested pest control methods for the most common pests include:

• Cockroaches: Vacuum all crevices and cracks regularly, keep waste containers clean and covered, and prevent condensation by increasing ventilation.
• Bed bugs: Seal cracks in the walls, clean and vacuum common areas, be on the lookout for their eggs and skins, and do fumigation should you see them.
• Rodents: Ensure all openings are closed and report sightings and signs like gnaw marks on electrical wiring in the attics, walls, basements, and crawlspaces for immediate pest control condo.
• Ants: Clean up after every meal to deny them their food source, repair cracks in windows, foundations, and walls, and keep windows and doors sealed.

Condo Pest Control: Does Being Clean Help?

One of the most effective methods of pest control for condos & apartments is keeping your unit clean. Cleaning denies pests their food and water source. If they do not find food, pests like rats, ants, and cockroaches simply move away.

With regular vacuuming, you will be able to pick bed bugs and their eggs. Some pests like cockroaches, bed bugs and ants hide in cracks and crevices. Regular vacuuming helps dislodge them from their hiding areas.

It is also easier to notice the presence of pests when the unit is clean, which allows you to fix the problem before the infestation spreads. As an example, you will be able to notice the small, pellet-like rodent droppings.

Note that the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) requires tenants to keep their rental units clean.

Condo Pest Control: Storing Food Properly

You should clean up after every meal and snack, including beverages, as a condo pest control measure because they provide a food source for pests. Clean the countertops, burners, cupboards, floor, table, and any other place where food and beverages may be present. You should also ensure the sink is dry, as water sustains pests. Common pests that rely on the food crumbs are ants, cockroaches, mice, and rats.

You should also clean your dust bins and ensure they are always covered so they do not attract pests. Another tip for pest control for condos is storing food in air-tight containers as opposed to Tupperware and other containers that leave small gaps. Easily sealed containers can also be used for pantry items.

Pest Control Condo Estimate: Toronto’s Scenario

There are many pest control companies in Toronto. Cost considerations are important when picking an exterminator, but they should not prevent you from making other important considerations.

You should go for a certified pest control removal company. A good company is one that has a certified, well-trained team, uses approved pest control methods, and offers a comprehensive service, from inspection to monitoring. You should get recommendations, whether online or offline, to determine how effective the company’s pest control measures are. Call us today at (416) 567-1135 for a pest control condo estimate in Toronto.

Pest Control for Condos & Apartments: Is There a Difference?

While condos are available for sale, apartments are available for rent only. Condo complexes and apartments usually have the same pest problems because of multiple tenants sharing walls and some common facilities like dumpsters. Still, there are several differences when it comes to pest control for condos and apartments.

According to Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), it is the responsibility of the landlord to keep the property clean and do pest control. On the other hand, according to the Condo Act, it is the responsibility of the condo owner to do condo pest control in their unit and in common areas where they have exclusive use, while the condo association does pest control in their units and the common areas.

Condo Pest Control: When to Call the Experts

Are you tempted to do DIY pest control for condos? There are several situations where you need professional help:

• If the pest problem is persistent despite numerous pest extermination attempts and you are receiving complaints from your neighbours or your condo association about pests, it is time to call in an exterminator.
• You should call a condo pest control company if you have a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs are tough to get rid of without expert help.
• Call a professional for pest control if you are unable to trace their hiding place.
• You need a pro if the pests require strong chemicals and you do not have the proper protective wear.

Condo Pest Control: Final Thoughts

Condo unit owners and condo associations have different responsibilities when it comes to pest control for condos, but they should come together to minimize the risk of pest infestation, which is a lose-lose situation. Cleanliness, fixing possible entry points, and vacuuming crevices and cracks are among the measures that minimize the risk of infestation. In case of infestation, leave the job to a certified pest control expert. At PestLine, we have made a name for ourselves in condo pest control since 2019. Call us today at (416) 567-1135.